besar — meaning in English: big

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

Guess the translation for big

sihat

kewajiban

dari

besar

pengabdian

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 very common

Usage

Native speakers commonly use 'besar' when discussing size or importance in everyday conversation, such as describing a large object like a 'rumah besar' (big house) or emphasizing the significance of an event, like a 'acara besar' (big event). You might hear it in both casual gatherings and more formal settings, like a business meeting when discussing projects or budgets.

Synonyms & nuances

'Besar' is often compared with 'luas,' which means 'wide' or 'spacious.' While 'besar' focuses on size, 'luas' emphasizes breadth or area. You would typically choose 'besar' when referring to something that is large in a general sense, whereas 'luas' might come into play when discussing the expanse of a room or field.

Culture

'Besar' has roots in the Malay language that can be traced back to the earliest interactions among Malay-speaking communities. It reflects not just physical size but also cultural values, as larger gatherings or events often symbolize communal strength and togetherness. Additionally, the word is frequently used in idiomatic expressions, making it a staple in both spoken and written Malay.

FAQ

Q.What does 'besar' mean in English?

'Besar' translates to 'big' in English, often used to describe size or importance.

Q.How do I use 'besar' in a sentence?

You can use 'besar' in sentences like 'Kucing itu besar' (That cat is big) or 'Kami mempunyai rumah besar' (We have a big house).

Q.Are there any common mistakes with 'besar'?

A common mistake is using 'besar' to describe abstract concepts; instead, use it primarily for physical sizes or tangible importance.

Learn malay with Maspeak →

Malay Vocabulary