Literasi
Definition & Context
Noun
A word that functions as the name of a specific object or set of objects, such as living creatures, places, actions, qualities, states of existence, or ideas.
The ability of an individual to read, write, comprehend, and effectively use information across various life contexts. In its broader sense, “literacy” encompasses not only basic reading and writing skills, but also critical thinking, textual analysis, and structured communication of ideas.
Synonyms & Variants
daya baca
A person's ability or capacity to understand and process information from reading materials.
keberaksaraan
The ability or state of being literate, i.e., able to read and write.
kecakapan membaca
Specific skills in understanding, interpreting, and evaluating written texts.
melek huruf
The phrase 'melek huruf' is more colloquial and used in simpler contexts, whereas 'literasi' carries a more technical and academic register.
keaksaraan
'Keaksaraan' is a formal equivalent frequently found in official government documents and non-formal education programs.
kecakapan baca-tulis
A descriptive phrase that more explicitly names the two core skills encompassed by the concept of literacy.
melek
The word 'melek' is commonly used informally as a concise equivalent of 'literasi' in expressions such as 'melek digital' or 'melek finansial'.
kompetensi
The relation is partial. 'Kompetensi' has a broader scope and does not always refer to reading and writing ability, but is often used interchangeably in educational contexts.
Usage Notes or Etymology
The word literasi is borrowed from the English literacy, which itself derives from the Latin literatus, meaning a learned person or one who is lettered. Its root is littera in Latin, meaning letter or writing. In modern usage, the concept of “literacy” has undergone significant semantic expansion. No longer limited to basic reading and writing ability, the term now encompasses multiple dimensions of competence including digital literacy, financial literacy, scientific literacy, and media literacy. In Indonesia, this word gained widespread use in educational discourse and public policy from the late 20th century onward, particularly after Indonesia began actively participating in international assessment programs such as PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment).
Real-world Usage
Tingkat literasi masyarakat Indonesia terus meningkat setiap tahunnya.
English Translation
Representative of real-world usage and contextual accuracy.
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