2.4. Grammar Focus
Prefix ter-
The function of the prefix ter- in the Indonesian language is to indicate a state or condition of a base word. It is often used with verbs and some adjectives to express various meanings, including:
1. Expressing Accidental or Involuntary Actions
For example: “terjatuh” (ter+jatuh) means “to accidentally fall down.”
- Saya terjatuh waktu berlari di taman. (I accidentally fell while running in the park.)
2. Indicating a Stative Verb
For example: “terbuka” (ter + buka) means “to be open.”
- Pintu kantornya sudah terbuka ketika dia sampai di sana. (His office door was already opened when he arrived there.)
3. Denoting an Abilitative Verb (“can be” or “cannot be”)
For example: “terbaca” (ter + baca) means “can be read.”
- Tulisan ini terbaca dengan jelas. (This writing can be read clearly.)
- Suaranya tidak terdengar dari sini. (His/her voice cannot be heard from here.)
4. Indicating a Superlative Meaning When Attached to an Adjective
For example: “tercantik” (ter + cantik) means “the most beautiful.”
- Gadis itu adalah yang tercantik di sekolah. (That girl is the most beautiful in the school.)
Practice
Choose the most appropriate meaning of the prefix ter- in the following sentences.
