mahal — meaning in English: expensive

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

Guess the translation for expensive

mahal

cuti

senang

menyemai

arah

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 often use the word 'mahal' when discussing the price of goods in marketplaces or restaurants, especially when comparing different items. For instance, a shopper might exclaim, 'Ini mahal!' when they find a product that exceeds their budget. It can also be used in conversations about services, such as hotel stays or travel expenses.

Synonyms & nuances

'Mahal' is often compared to 'tinggi,' which means 'high.' While 'tinggi' can refer to the height of an object, 'mahal' specifically relates to the cost. You would use 'mahal' to express that something is costly, while 'tinggi' would be used for describing physical dimensions.

Culture

The word 'mahal' has its roots in the Arabic language, where it means 'valuable' or 'precious.' In Malay culture, discussions about price and value are significant, especially in bustling markets where bargaining is a common practice. So, the word carries not just a financial connotation but also reflects the importance of value in everyday interactions.

FAQ

Q.What is the meaning of the Malay word 'mahal'?

'Mahal' means 'expensive' in English, typically used to describe items or services that cost a lot of money.

Q.How do you use 'mahal' in a sentence?

You can use 'mahal' in a sentence like, 'Baju ini mahal,' which translates to 'This shirt is expensive.'

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'mahal'?

A common mistake is to confuse 'mahal' with 'murah,' which means 'cheap.' Ensure you're clear on the context to use them correctly.

Learn malay with Maspeak →

Malay Vocabulary