serasi

Serasi is an Indonesian word meaning harmonious or compatible. It describes things that fit well together in appearance, color, style, function, or mood. The sense goes beyond mere suitability, signaling a cohesive or pleasing combination. The term is common in everyday Indonesian and Malay usage and is listed in dictionaries as synonymous with cocok or selaras in some contexts.

Usage and examples: In fashion and design, serasi describes combinations that look right together. For example, pakaian itu serasi dengan warna kulitnya means the outfit suits her skin tone. In interior decor, warna dinding dan furnitur serasi refers to a harmonious color scheme. In social contexts, mereka terlihat serasi describes a couple who seem well matched. In branding or visual communication, elemen desain yang serasi indicates a cohesive visual identity.

Nuance: Serasi conveys an assessment of overall harmony rather than a simple functional fit. It often implies aesthetic alignment and a sense of balance among elements, rather than just practicality. It can be contrasted with cocok for basic suitability or with selaras for alignment with a standard or theme.

Related terms: selaras, harmonis, cocok, padu. While related, these words carry subtle differences in emphasis—serasi focusing on overall harmony and fit, selaras on alignment or sync, and cocok on suitability.