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tanggung jawab — meaning in English: responsibility

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tanggung jawab
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neutral common
Usage
Native speakers often use 'tanggung jawab' in discussions about personal duties or obligations, such as when a parent talks to their children about their responsibilities at home. It's also common in professional settings, like meetings, where team members discuss project responsibilities and accountability.
Synonyms & nuances
'Tanggung jawab' closely relates to 'kewajiban,' which means obligation. While both imply a duty, 'tanggung jawab' emphasizes accountability and the moral aspect of having a responsibility, making it the preferred choice when discussing ethical obligations or roles in society.
Culture
'Tanggung jawab' combines 'tanggung,' which means to bear or carry, and 'jawab,' meaning to answer. This reflects a cultural value in Indonesia where communal and individual responsibilities are deeply intertwined, emphasizing the importance of fulfilling one's duties not just for oneself, but for the community as a whole. The concept is so ingrained that it often features in discussions about ethics and social behavior in both personal and civic life.
FAQ
Q.What does 'tanggung jawab' mean in English?
'Tanggung jawab' translates directly to 'responsibility' in English, referring to the state of having a duty to deal with something or having control over someone.
Q.How is 'tanggung jawab' used in everyday conversation?
You might hear 'tanggung jawab' in family discussions about household chores, or in workplaces where team members clarify their roles and obligations regarding projects.
Q.Are there common mistakes when using 'tanggung jawab'?
A common mistake is to confuse 'tanggung jawab' with 'kewajiban.' While they are similar, 'tanggung jawab' is more about accountability, so make sure to use it when stressing the ethical side of responsibilities.
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Indonesian Vocabulary