Likur
Definition & Context
Numeral
A figure, symbol, or group of these denoting a number.
A Javanese numerical “suffix” used to form compound numbers in the range of twenty-one to twenty-nine, attached after the unit digit preceding it.
Synonyms & Variants
pitu likur
The most commonly cited example to illustrate the use of `likur` as a Javanese numerical suffix.
dua puluh
Not a direct equivalent, but represents the standard Indonesian base for the same range. `Likur` specifically serves as a suffix for 21-29, not the number 20 itself.
rong puluh
`Rong puluh` is the base form for 20 in Javanese ngoko, providing the linguistic context in which `likur` operates.
Usage Notes or Etymology
The word likur originates from Classical Javanese vocabulary and has been passed down through generations as part of the traditional Javanese numeration system. It functions as a “numerical suffix” that attaches to a unit digit to form numbers in the range of twenty-one to twenty-nine. In practice, likur is always preceded by a Javanese unit numeral, for example siji (one) forms siji likur (21), loro (two) forms loro likur (22), and songo (nine) forms songo likur (29). The number twenty itself is typically expressed as rong puluh or in some variants as part of the selikur cluster. The continued use of likur reflects the distinctly indigenous Javanese numeral system, which differs structurally from the modern decimal system. It remains actively used in everyday Javanese conversation, particularly when referring to age, dates, or quantities in informal settings.
Real-world Usage
Umurku pitu likur, durung omah-omah. (Umurku dua puluh tujuh, belum menikah.)
English Translation
Representative of real-world usage and contextual accuracy.
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