I'm learning Melayu

pakaian — meaning in English: clothes

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for clothes
lembut
pakaian
bernieka
cita-cita
hubungan
Skip this question   
🎓
Learn Malay for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
Already have an account? Log in
neutral common
Usage
Native speakers use the word 'pakaian' in everyday conversations when discussing clothing, whether it's during shopping trips, family gatherings, or casual outings. For example, one might say, 'Saya perlu membeli pakaian baru untuk majlis tersebut,' meaning 'I need to buy new clothes for the event.'
Synonyms & nuances
'Pakaian' is a general term for clothes, whereas 'busana' typically refers to more formal attire or fashion. You would choose 'pakaian' when talking about everyday wear and 'busana' when discussing something more upscale or fashionable.
Culture
'Pakaian' has its roots in the Malay verb 'pakai,' which means 'to wear.' This connection highlights the intrinsic link between clothing and identity in Malay culture. Traditional garments like 'baju kurung' or 'baju Melayu' are deeply cherished, often representing regional heritage and craftsmanship.
FAQ
Q.What does 'pakaian' mean in English?
'Pakaian' translates to 'clothes' in English, referring to garments worn on the body.
Q.How do you use 'pakaian' in a sentence?
You can use it in a sentence like, 'Dia memakai pakaian yang sangat cantik,' which means 'She is wearing very beautiful clothes.'
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'pakaian'?
'Pakaian' should not be confused with 'baju,' which specifically means 'shirt' or 'top.' Remember that 'pakaian' encompasses all types of clothing.
Learn malay with Maspeak →
Malay Vocabulary