Synonyms of Prokem
Synonyms of prokem are bajingan, gali, jawara, preman, berandal, bromocorah, and centeng.
slang
Meaning of Prokem
A term from Jakarta's 1980s "prokem" slang register referring to a *preman* (street thug or gangster), an individual operating outside formal social norms, often involved in illicit activities and exerting informal territorial control.
- bajinganA synonym with far higher emotive intensity, functioning as an expletive. Not used in neutral contexts.
- galiA semi-official term used by security forces and New Order-era media to refer to organized groups of street thugs. Contemporary with the usage of the word `prokem`.
- jawaraPrimarily used in Betawi and Banten cultural contexts. Its meaning is more ambiguous, as it can refer to a protective figure who is both feared and respected.
- premanThe standard form and etymological root of `prokem`. Both refer to the same referent, but `preman` belongs to general usage while `prokem` was a secret code of the 1980s.
- berandalA standard equivalent emphasizing disruptive and criminal behavior, with a slightly more negative connotation than `preman`.
- bromocorahThis term is more archaic and formal in usage, frequently appearing in news or official reports during the New Order era.
- centengRefers to a more specific functional role as a hired guard or enforcer. Overlaps with the concept of `prokem` in terms of using physical force to control territory.