Repoeblik
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.
An archaic spelling of republik (republic), referring to a system of government in which supreme power is held by the people and exercised through elected representatives. This concept describes a state not led by a king or emperor, but by a leader accountable to its citizens.
Synonyms & Variants
negara
An organization of power within a territory that has a government, sovereignty, and people.
pemerintahan rakyat
A system of government where power resides with the people or is represented by them.
republik
The modern spelling of 'Repoeblik', referring to a democratic and non-monarchical system of government.
negara demokrasi
The phrase 'negara demokrasi' is often used interchangeably with 'republik' in formal political discourse, though not entirely identical conceptually. Both emphasize popular sovereignty as the foundation of governance.
negara merdeka
In the context of Indonesian independence struggle rhetoric, 'repoeblik' was often associated with the concept of 'negara merdeka' (independent state) because the founding of the Republic of Indonesia was synonymous with the proclamation of independence. This relationship is associative and contextual, not a strict linguistic synonym.
Usage Notes or Etymology
The Van Ophuijsen orthography (used until 1947) spelled this word as repoeblik, reflecting the Dutch pronunciation of republiek. It appeared prominently in proclamation texts and nationalist movement newspapers, becoming a symbol of independence-era idealism. Under the Soewandi system (1947), it was simplified to republik.
Real-world Usage
Kita hendak membangun repoeblik jang merdeka dan berdaoelat. (Kita hendak membangun republik yang merdeka dan berdaulat.)
English Translation
Representative of real-world usage and contextual accuracy.
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