Banjak
Definition & Context
Adjective
A word or phrase naming an attribute, added to or grammatically related to a noun to modify or describe it.
Indicating a large quantity or number; exceeding the average or expectation.
Synonyms & Variants
akeh
In large quantities.
banyak
Indicates a large or not small quantity.
loba
Sundanese dialect form for 'many' or 'much'.
melimpah
Existing in very large quantities, exceeding needs.
segudang
Very many; countless (often used for abstract things like experiences, problems).
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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