15 Repetitive Verbs In Makassar Language: Examples And Explanations

Hey guys! Have you ever explored the beauty of the Makassar language? This language, spoken by the Makassar people in South Sulawesi, Indonesia, has a unique charm, especially in its use of repetitive verbs. Repetitive verbs are verbs that are repeated to express an action that is done continuously, repeatedly, or intensely. This is similar to reduplication in English, but with a more specific grammatical function.

In this article, we're going to dive deep into 15 examples of repetitive verbs in Makassar. Not only will we explore the words themselves, but we'll also break down their meanings and how they're used in everyday conversations. So, buckle up and get ready to enrich your linguistic knowledge!

What are Repetitive Verbs?

Before we jump into the examples, let's first understand what repetitive verbs are. Repetitive verbs, or what we can also call recurring verbs, are verbs that are repeated to indicate an action that occurs repeatedly, continuously, or with intensity. This repetition can add emphasis and nuance to the meaning of the verb.

In Makassar language, this repetition isn't just for emphasis; it's a grammatical feature that adds depth to the language. Think of it like adding extra layers to a cake – each layer enhances the overall flavor. By repeating the verb, you're not just saying someone is doing something, but you're also conveying how they're doing it. Are they doing it frequently? Are they doing it with a lot of effort? Repetitive verbs help paint a more vivid picture.

15 Examples of Repetitive Verbs in Makassar

Okay, let's get to the main course! Here are 15 examples of repetitive verbs in Makassar, complete with explanations and example sentences. Each of these verbs will give you a better understanding of how this linguistic feature works and how it enriches the language.

1. Kelong-kelong (Menyanyi-nyanyi – Singing Repeatedly)

Kelong-kelong is derived from the verb kelong, which means "to sing." When repeated, kelong-kelong means "to sing repeatedly" or "to sing for a long time." Imagine a group of friends sitting around a bonfire, singing their hearts out – that's the perfect image for kelong-kelong.

Example: “Nakellong-kellong memang iyonjo anne karaenga.” (The king was indeed singing repeatedly.)

This verb really captures the spirit of a joyful, ongoing activity. It's not just a quick song; it's a sustained, enthusiastic performance.

2. Lari-lari (Berlari-lari – Running Around)

Lari-lari comes from the verb lari, meaning "to run." The repetition indicates running around, often playfully or without a specific destination. Think of kids playing in a park, chasing each other and laughing – that’s lari-lari in action. This word adds a sense of playfulness and freedom to the simple act of running.

Example: “Jai ana’-ana’ lari-lari ri paraka’.” (Many children are running around in the park.)

3. Cini’-cini’ (Melihat-lihat – Looking Around)

Derived from cini’ (to see or look), cini’-cini’ means "to look around" or "to observe carefully." It suggests a more deliberate act of looking, perhaps with curiosity or suspicion. This verb is perfect for describing someone who is exploring a new place or trying to find something specific. The repeated action emphasizes the thoroughness of the observation.

Example: “Nicini’-cini’ balla’na appaka nia’ gau’ sala.” (He looked around the house to see if there was something wrong.)

4. Akjappa’-jappa’ (Berjalan-jalan – Strolling)

Akjappa’ means "to walk," so akjappa’-jappa’ translates to "strolling" or "walking leisurely." This verb evokes a sense of relaxation and enjoyment, like a leisurely walk in the park or along the beach. It's about taking your time and enjoying the scenery. The repetition here softens the action, making it less about the destination and more about the journey.

Example: “Akjappa’-jappa’ ma’ ri pantayya’.” (Let's stroll on the beach.)

5. A’bicara-bicara (Berbicara-bicara – Chatting)

A’bicara means "to speak," and a’bicara-bicara means "to chat" or "to talk casually." It implies a relaxed and informal conversation, often with friends or family. This verb captures the essence of social interaction, the back-and-forth of friendly chatter. The repetition highlights the continuous nature of the conversation.

Example: “A’bicara-bicara ikambe ri warung kopi.” (We chatted at the coffee shop.)

6. A’baca-baca (Membaca-baca – Reading Casually)

From a’baca (to read), a’baca-baca means "to read casually" or "to browse." It suggests a less focused form of reading, such as flipping through a magazine or skimming a newspaper. This verb is ideal for describing someone who is looking for something interesting without a specific goal in mind. The repetition gives the idea of flipping through pages and glancing at different things.

Example: “A’baca-baca buku’ ri perpusataka’.” (I read casually in the library.)

7. Appa’lajari-lajari (Mempelajari-pelajari – Studying Repeatedly)

Appa’lajari means "to study," and appa’lajari-lajari means "to study repeatedly" or "to study diligently." This verb emphasizes the effort and persistence in learning something. It's perfect for describing someone who is preparing for an exam or trying to master a new skill. The repetition underscores the dedication and hard work involved.

Example: “Appa’lajari-lajari’ bajik pelajaranna.” (Study your lessons diligently.)

8. Angngalle-ngalle (Mengambil-ambil – Taking Repeatedly)

Derived from angngalle (to take), angngalle-ngalle means "to take repeatedly" or "to take many times." It suggests a continuous action of taking, often indicating a collection or accumulation of items. Imagine someone gathering shells on the beach or picking fruit from a tree – that’s angngalle-ngalle in action. The repetition here amplifies the act of taking, showing it's not just a one-time thing.

Example: “Angngalle-ngalle bua’ mangga ri poko’na.” (He is taking mangoes repeatedly from the tree.)

9. Appasulu’-sulu’ (Mengeluarkan-mengeluarkan – Taking out Repeatedly)

Appasulu’ means "to take out," and appasulu’-sulu’ means "to take out repeatedly" or "to keep taking out." This verb can describe someone emptying a container or constantly removing items from a bag. The repetition underscores the continuous nature of the action, suggesting that the process is ongoing.

Example: “Appasulu’-sulu’ barang ri lalompo’na.” (He is taking out items repeatedly from his bag.)

10. Angngitung-ngitung (Menghitung-hitung – Counting Repeatedly)

From angngitung (to count), angngitung-ngitung means "to count repeatedly" or "to count carefully." It suggests a meticulous and thorough counting process, often involving large numbers or complex calculations. This verb is perfect for describing someone who is balancing a budget or taking inventory. The repetition emphasizes the precision and attention to detail required.

Example: “Angngitung-ngitung doe’na ri bank.” (He is counting his money repeatedly at the bank.)

11. Appenteng-penteng (Memukul-mukul – Hitting Repeatedly)

Appenteng means "to hit," so appenteng-penteng translates to "hitting repeatedly" or "to beat." This verb conveys a strong sense of continuous action, often implying force or intensity. It’s a vivid way to describe someone hammering nails or drumming a rhythm. The repetition here adds a layer of intensity to the action.

Example: “Appenteng-penteng tamburu’na.” (He is hitting the drum repeatedly.)

12. Appasa’la-sa’la (Menyalahkan-nyalahkan – Blaming Repeatedly)

Derived from appasa’la (to blame), appasa’la-sa’la means "to blame repeatedly" or "to keep blaming." This verb suggests a persistent and often accusatory action. It can describe someone who is constantly finding fault with others or refuses to take responsibility. The repetition underscores the relentlessness of the blaming.

Example: “Teako appasa’la-sa’la tau maraeng.” (Don't blame other people repeatedly.)

13. Accera’-cera’ (Menangis-nangis – Crying Repeatedly)

Accera’ means "to cry," and accera’-cera’ means "to cry repeatedly" or "to weep." This verb conveys a strong emotional state, suggesting prolonged sadness or grief. It's a poignant way to describe someone who is deeply upset. The repetition here amplifies the emotional intensity of the action.

Example: “Accera’-cera’ lanri kamateanna.” (She is crying repeatedly because of his death.)

14. Ammoter-moter (Berputar-putar – Spinning Around)

From ammoter (to spin), ammoter-moter means "to spin around" or "to rotate repeatedly." This verb can describe physical spinning or a more figurative sense of confusion or disorientation. Imagine a dancer twirling on stage or someone feeling dizzy – that’s ammoter-moter in action. The repetition highlights the circular nature of the movement.

Example: “Ammoter-moter ri tengnga lapanga’.” (He is spinning around in the middle of the field.)

15. Anggappa’-gappa’ (Mencari-cari – Searching Repeatedly)

Anggappa’ means "to search," and anggappa’-gappa’ means "to search repeatedly" or "to look for something diligently." This verb suggests a thorough and persistent search, often involving careful examination and attention to detail. It’s a perfect way to describe someone who is hunting for a lost item or conducting an investigation. The repetition underscores the effort and determination involved.

Example: “Anggappa’-gappa’ kittaka’na ilang.” (He is searching repeatedly for his lost book.)

Why Use Repetitive Verbs?

So, why do Makassar speakers use repetitive verbs? What's the big deal? Well, these verbs aren't just about repeating an action; they add layers of meaning and nuance that single verbs can't convey. They help to:

• Emphasize the duration of an action: Repetitive verbs can show that an action is happening continuously or for an extended period.
• Indicate the intensity of an action: They can convey that an action is being done with a lot of effort or emotion.
• Add a sense of playfulness or informality: Some repetitive verbs suggest a relaxed and casual way of doing things.
• Provide a more vivid description: By repeating the verb, you create a more detailed and engaging picture in the listener's mind.

Conclusion

Guys, I hope you’ve enjoyed this exploration of repetitive verbs in the Makassar language! These 15 examples give you just a glimpse into the richness and complexity of this beautiful language. By understanding how repetitive verbs work, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the nuances of Makassar and how its speakers express themselves. Learning these verbs not only expands your vocabulary but also enriches your understanding of the culture and the way people communicate.

So, next time you hear a repetitive verb in Makassar, you'll know exactly what's going on! Keep exploring, keep learning, and keep enjoying the beauty of languages!