Last updated on January 16, 2024
Extended/Repeated Action
When the root word is reduplicated, the ber- word may indicate repeated or extended action, or action that takes place over an extended period of time.
Root: jalan (street(N), to walk(V)) > reduplication of the root word: jalan-jalan (to stroll) > ber + jalan-jalan > berjalan-jalan (walk about, go for a stroll)
Indicate Plurality
Root: macam (kind, sort, variety) > reduplication of the root word: macam-macam (various kinds) > ber + jalan-jalan > bermacam-macam (various kinds)
Prefix ber- can be dropped to make it informal.
Forms Duration
Reduplicated noun base ber- indicating a period of time forms adjuncts of duration. It can also apply to indefinite physical distances.
Root: jam (hour, timepiece) > reduplication of the root word: jam-jam (the hours) > ber + jam-jam > berjam-jam (for hours)