banci

ban.tʃiinsult, sexual

What does banci mean? banci is a Indonesian severe that translates to “pussy / sissy / tranny” in English.

transvestite / effeminate

01

"pussy / sissy / tranny"

Historically a cross-dresser or transgender woman (waria).

Jangan jadi banci dong lu! (Don't be a pussy!)

Context

  • Expressing strong frustration or emphasis
  • Only among very close friends who share this register
  • Direct confrontation (use with caution)

Avoid

  • Professional or formal settings
  • Around elders or authority figures
  • Public spaces — will cause genuine offense
  • Mixed company or unfamiliar social groups
  • Job interviews, meetings, or customer-facing situations

Cultural Context

Often used aggressively against men to call them cowards or unmanly.

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