Banjak
Definition & Context
Indicating a large quantity or number; exceeding the average or expectation.
Usage Notes or Etymology
The word “banjak” is an informal variant of “banyak” commonly used during the “tempo doeloe” (olden times) era, especially in writings adhering to the Van Ophuijsen spelling. This spelling change reflects the phonological and orthographic transition from Malay to modern Indonesian, where the 'nj' diphthong is spelled 'nj' in newer spelling systems, while 'dj' and 'tj' became 'j' and 'c' respectively. The use of “banjak” was often found in newspapers, popular literature, and informal documents during the Dutch colonial period, indicating the influence of local pronunciation and spelling adaptations.
Real-world Usage
Orang banjak itoe soeka sekali dengerin tjerita baroe. (Orang banyak itu suka sekali mendengarkan cerita baru.)
English Translation
Representative of real-world usage and contextual accuracy.
Verified Evidence1
Boekoe Soerat-Soerat (TH. A. Du Mosch) Boekoe Soerat-Soerat (TH. A. Du Mosch)
ImageliteratureVerify Context
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