bekerja — meaning in English: work

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

Guess the translation for work

tahu

pekerja keras

bekerja

bercakap

waktu

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 the word 'bekerja' in both professional and casual settings. For example, you might hear it in a business meeting when discussing project responsibilities, or in a conversation among friends about weekend plans, as in 'Saya akan bekerja esok' (I will work tomorrow).

Synonyms & nuances

'Bekerja' is often used interchangeably with 'berkerja,' but 'bekerja' is more common in everyday conversation. While both mean 'to work,' 'berkerja' can carry a slightly more formal tone, making 'bekerja' the preferred choice in casual contexts.

Culture

'Bekerja' stems from the base word 'kerja,' which means 'work' or 'job.' In Malay culture, the concept of hard work is highly valued, reflecting the importance of diligence and perseverance in achieving success. Interestingly, the word can also be used in idiomatic expressions, such as 'bekerja keras' (to work hard), emphasizing the cultural pride in effort and industriousness.

FAQ

Q.What does 'bekerja' mean in English?

'Bekerja' translates to 'work' in English. It refers to the act of engaging in tasks or employment, whether paid or voluntary.

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

You can use 'bekerja' in sentences like 'Saya bekerja di pejabat' (I work at the office) or 'Dia bekerja keras untuk mencapai cita-citanya' (He works hard to achieve his dreams).

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

A common mistake is using 'bekerja' without the correct context. Ensure you're clear whether you're discussing formal employment or general work to avoid confusion.

Learn malay with Maspeak →

Malay Vocabulary