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sejak — meaning in English: since

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sejak
celana
mengatasi
kenyataan
sampai jumpa
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neutral common
Usage
Native speakers use the word 'sejak' when discussing timeframes or durations, particularly when indicating the starting point of an action or situation. For instance, someone might say, 'Saya tinggal di Jakarta sejak 2010' (I have lived in Jakarta since 2010) when explaining their residence in the city. This word is commonly used in both spoken and written Indonesian, making it versatile for casual conversations or formal contexts.
Synonyms & nuances
'Sejak' is often compared to 'mulai,' which means 'from' or 'beginning.' However, 'mulai' is more about the initiation of an action, while 'sejak' emphasizes the duration from a starting point to the present. You would choose 'sejak' when you want to highlight an ongoing situation that began at a specific time.
Culture
'Sejak' traces its roots back to the Old Javanese language, where it also carried the meaning of time reference. In Indonesian culture, time is often viewed as a linear concept, and 'sejak' embodies this notion by marking the beginning of significant events, such as relationships or important milestones. Understanding its use provides insight into how Indonesians chronicle their life experiences.
FAQ
Q.What does the Indonesian word 'sejak' mean?
'Sejak' translates to 'since' in English and is used to indicate the starting point of an action or situation.
Q.How do I use 'sejak' in a sentence?
You can use 'sejak' followed by a specific time or event, such as 'Saya bekerja di sini sejak 2015' (I have worked here since 2015).
Q.Are there common mistakes to avoid with 'sejak'?
A common mistake is to confuse 'sejak' with 'mulai.' Remember that 'sejak' refers to a starting point in time, while 'mulai' indicates the beginning of an action.
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