Indonesian
Kepo
/KEH-poh/
Kepo describes an individual whose curiosity about others' private lives borders on an insatiable obsession, often leading to intrusive behaviors. It's more than mere nosiness; it signifies a persistent, almost compulsive drive to uncover intimate details about relationships, personal affairs, or local gossip. This relentless prying isn't typically malicious but stems from an overwhelming desire to be deeply involved and informed, positioning them as privy to information that arguably falls outside their rightful domain. The word perfectly encapsulates a distinct social dynamic of pervasive, yet often tolerated, prying within Indonesian and Malay communities.
Lit. Nosey
Used colloquially to describe someone who is overly inquisitive about others' business, often asking personal questions or spreading gossip.