Dumeh
/jv/Source Language: The language or dialect this term originates from (JV).Definition & Context
ConjunctionConjunction
A word used to connect clauses or sentences or to coordinate words in the same clause.
A conjunction indicating “cause” or “reason”; often used in an informal context as a substitute for the word “karena” (because).
Synonyms & Variants
gara-gara
Informal conjunction indicating a cause, typically used for negative outcomes.
karena
Conjunction used to indicate a cause or reason.
lantaran
Conjunction often used in conversational or narrative contexts to state a reason.
sebab
Conjunction that states the reason or background of an event.
Usage Notes or Etymology
Duméh is a conjunction from Sundanese that informally acts as a synonym for “because” or “due to”. The word “Dumeh” also originates from Javanese, meaning “Arrogant”. This word is very common in daily conversations among Sundanese speakers, reflecting a nuance of everydayness and familiarity in communication. Although formally it can be replaced with “because,” duméh adds a local touch and a more authentic expression within the Sundanese cultural context.
Real-world Usage
Aya suratna baé, basana téh ulah nyeri haté, duméh manéhna teu bisa datang lantaran aya halangan. (Ada suratnya saja, bahasanya jangan sampai menyakitkan hati, *karena* dia tidak bisa datang sebab ada halangan.)
English Translation
Representative of real-world usage and contextual accuracy.
Definition & Context
AdjectiveAdjective
A word or phrase naming an attribute, added to or grammatically related to a noun to modify or describe it.
A mental attitude or behavior exhibiting “arrogance” or pride because one feels superior due to specific advantages such as wealth, position, or physical appearance.
Synonyms & Variants
aja dumeh
A Javanese philosophical expression warning someone not to be arrogant despite having power or wealth.
jumawa
A loanword often used in formal or literary contexts.
mentang-mentang
Emphasizes the reason behind the arrogance.
sombong
The most common equivalent in standard Indonesian.
takabur
The attitude of feeling more noble or greater than others, often used in a religious context.
kumalungkung
A more literary Javanese form for arrogance.
angkuh
Focuses on outward behavior that is cold and haughty.
songong
Jakarta dialect variant with similar but ruder connotations.
Usage Notes or Etymology
The term originates from the Javanese word dumeh which literally means “because” or “just because”. In Javanese cultural context, this word is frequently used in the moral philosophy “ojo dumeh” which serves as an ethical warning for individuals to remain humble and not lose their sense of self when reaching success. Sociolinguistically, it carries a social critique against the abuse of power or status. The usage of this word is often intended to remind others that all worldly advantages are temporary.
Real-world Usage
Ojo dumeh dadi wong sugih banjur kemayu. (Jangan sombong jadi orang kaya lalu berlagak centil.)
English Translation
Representative of real-world usage and contextual accuracy.