kembali — meaning in English: return

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

Guess the translation for return

ibu

hotel

perjalanan jauh

kecerdasan

kembali

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 'kembali' in various situations, such as when referring to returning home after a trip, or when discussing returning an item to a store. For example, one might say, 'Saya akan kembali ke rumah selepas kerja,' meaning 'I will return home after work.' It can also be used in more abstract contexts, like returning to a topic of discussion.

Synonyms & nuances

'Kembali' can be compared to 'balik,' which is often used in more casual settings. While 'balik' typically refers to physically going back to a place, 'kembali' is broader and can apply to returning to a state or condition, making it suitable in both everyday conversation and more formal contexts.

Culture

'Kembali' has its roots in the Malay language, deriving from the root word 'balik,' which means 'to turn back.' This reflects the strong cultural emphasis on community and relationships in Malay society, where returning to familial or social settings is often celebrated. The word captures a warm sense of reconnection, making it a favorite in everyday greetings.

FAQ

Q.What does 'kembali' mean in English?

'Kembali' translates to 'return' in English and is used in various contexts, such as returning home or returning items.

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

You can use 'kembali' like this: 'Dia akan kembali dari melancong minggu depan,' which means 'He will return from traveling next week.'

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

A common mistake is using 'kembali' exclusively for physical returns. Remember, it can also refer to returning to a previous state or situation.

Learn malay with Maspeak →

Malay Vocabulary