In Indonesian slang, or bahasa gaul, many abbreviations and symbols take on unique meanings that differ significantly from their formal definitions. One such example is the use of the letter X. At first glance, it might seem like a simple letter or symbol, but within informal digital communication especially among youth it often holds deeper meaning. Whether it’s used in chat, social media captions, or memes, understanding what X means in this context helps decode contemporary conversations and trends in Indonesian pop culture.
Understanding the Context of Bahasa Gaul
What Is Bahasa Gaul?
Bahasa gaul is an informal variation of the Indonesian language, widely used by teenagers and young adults in daily conversations, especially online. It often features shortened words, abbreviations, code-switching (mixing Indonesian with English), and even symbols. Bahasa gaul evolves quickly, influenced by music, movies, memes, and social media trends.
This informal language has become a dominant form of communication on platforms like TikTok, Twitter, and Instagram. As new slang terms continue to emerge, their meanings are often not found in standard dictionaries, making it essential to understand the cultural and linguistic background behind them.
Why People Use Bahasa Gaul
- To appear trendy or cool within their peer group
- To express thoughts more creatively and casually
- To shorten words and save time when texting
- To create an in-group language that may not be easily understood by older generations
What Does X Mean in Bahasa Gaul?
The Symbol X as a Replacement
In Indonesian slang, X is often used as a substitute for the word kali, which means times in English both in terms of multiplication and frequency. This usage likely comes from its function in mathematics (e.g., 2 x 3 = 6, read as dua kali tiga). In texting, especially among younger users, writing x instead of kali helps save characters and makes the message look trendier.
Examples include:
- Gue udah nonton film itu 3x! → I’ve watched that movie 3 times!
- Dia udah bohong ke gue x berkali-kali. → He has lied to me so many times.
In this case, x is simply read as kali and functions just like the English word times when expressing repetition or frequency.
X as a Symbol of Collaboration
Another modern interpretation comes from the use of x in global pop culture, where it denotes a collaboration or crossover. For instance, in music and fashion, it’s common to see phrases like Nike x Off-White or BTS x Coldplay. In Indonesian slang, this meaning has also been adopted, especially when referring to collaborations between brands, creators, or celebrities.
Example usage:
- Lihat dong kolab terbaru itu, JKT48 x Weird Genius!
- Brand lokal x artis Korea, keren banget sih.
In these sentences, x is read as versus or with and implies a collaborative relationship. It’s considered stylish and modern to use x this way, especially in promotional or aesthetic contexts.
X as an Aesthetic Element
Beyond functional usage, x is sometimes used just to add flair to a message, name, or username. It might not hold any specific meaning but contributes to the overall tone or visual style of the text. You’ll often find it in social media handles or screen names like:
- @xDarkAngelx
- @GadisXmanis
In this case, the x acts as a decorative element that adds edginess or emotion. It’s frequently used by teenagers to create usernames that feel more personal or expressive.
Where Is X Commonly Used?
Online Conversations
X is widespread on platforms like WhatsApp, Instagram Stories, TikTok captions, and Twitter. Its meaning depends entirely on context. If it appears between two names, it probably indicates collaboration. If it appears next to a number, it likely refers to repetition.
Example:
- Gue udah baca chat dia 10x tapi gak dibales. → I’ve read his message 10 times but didn’t reply.
Pop Culture and Branding
Fashion labels, music releases, and event promotions in Indonesia have embraced the x trend to appeal to younger audiences. By using x, brands signal that their campaign is youthful, bold, and connected to global trends.
Fan Communities and Fandoms
Among fans of music, K-pop, anime, and online influencers, x is a key part of the digital language. For example, when two celebrities are rumored to be working together or even romantically linked fans might use x to represent that imagined connection.
- Imagine if NCT x BLACKPINK happen. That would break the internet.
Variations and Evolving Usage
Uppercase vs Lowercase
Some people prefer writing X in uppercase for emphasis, especially when it appears in usernames or branding. Lowercase x is more common in casual texting and social media posts.
Multiple Xs
Sometimes, x is repeated to add visual rhythm or exaggeration. It may not change the literal meaning, but it enhances the emotional tone. For example:
- Gue udah bilang xxxxxx kali! → I’ve said it sooooo many times!
This kind of repetition is similar to stretching letters in English for emphasis (e.g., soooo tired).
How to Interpret X in Conversation
Pay Attention to Placement
To determine what x means in a sentence, look at where it’s placed:
- Before or after numbers → likely means times (kali)
- Between names or brand titles → indicates a collaboration
- Within usernames or phrases → often used for aesthetic or stylistic purposes
Consider the Tone and Platform
If you’re reading a TikTok comment or meme, x might be used in a humorous or playful way. In more formal settings, such as workplace communication, using x in this informal sense might be inappropriate or confusing.
The symbol X in bahasa gaul carries multiple meanings, depending on context. From representing the word kali (times), to indicating a collaboration, or simply acting as a stylish addition to names and captions, x reflects the creativity and dynamism of Indonesian digital culture. As bahasa gaul continues to evolve with trends and technology, the use of symbols like x illustrates how language adapts to new forms of communication. By understanding its varied meanings, one can better engage in modern conversations and fully grasp the nuances of today’s slang-driven expressions.