Last updated on January 16, 2024
me- transitive verb
Prefix me- is usually used to form active transitive verb (transitive: verb that followed by object). Prefixes me- can be combined with any nouns, any adjective, numbers, and even verbs themselves to form another verb. However some intransitive verbs can have prefix me- too.
Most transitive verbs can not be used in a sentence in their infinitive forms, except for a few words (e.g. makan – to eat), minum – to drink). So, in order to use it, you must conjugate it with me- or some other prefixes.
- Saya memakan nasi goreng. – I eat fried rice.
- Saya makan nasi goreng. – I eat fried rice.
- Dia menulis buku. He/she writes [a] book(s)
You can not say:
- Dia tulis buku.
me- intransitive verb
Most intransitive verbs must be used in their infinitive forms (e.g. tidur (to sleep) or use other affixes.
- Saya tidur. – I sleep.
Unlike transitive verbs, only a few of intransitive verbs can be conjugated with me-.
- Dia menangis. – He/she cries
- Wati menari. – Wati dances
Here the word tari (to dance) is considered intransitive.