boleh

Boleh is a common word in Malay and Indonesian that functions as a modal verb meaning may, can, or be allowed. It expresses permission or possibility depending on the context. In Indonesian, examples include "Boleh saya masuk?" meaning "May I come in?" and "Kamu boleh makan sekarang" meaning "You may eat now." In Malay, similar uses appear in phrases like "Boleh saya pinjam buku ini?" to request permission.

The word is versatile and can be used to grant permission or to indicate that something is feasible. It can also serve as an affirmative response to an offer or suggestion, for example "Boleh!" or "Boleh lah" to signal acceptance in casual speech. In contrast to "bisa," which more often emphasizes ability, "boleh" leans toward permission and possibility, though the distinctions can blur in everyday talk.

Formality and variations: "Boleh" is common in informal and semi-formal speech, while "bolehkah" or "bolehkah Anda..." is the more formal or written way to pose a question about permission. The particle "lah" frequently appears in Malay and Indonesian colloquial speech (as in "Boleh lah") to soften or casualize the utterance.

Regional usage: Boleh is widely understood across Malay-speaking communities in Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei. It features prominently in daily conversation, informal media, and interpersonal exchanges, reflecting a shared tonal register for politeness and agreement.

See also: bisa, izin, permiso.