I'm learning Melayu

gelisah — meaning in English: restless

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for restless
bertiup
gelisah
cahaya
satu
melangkah
Skip this question   
🎓
Learn Malay for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
Already have an account? Log in
neutral common
Usage
Native speakers often use 'gelisah' in everyday conversations to describe feelings of unease or anxiety, especially during stressful situations like waiting for exam results or before a big presentation. It can also be heard in literary contexts, where authors describe characters experiencing inner turmoil or restlessness in their lives.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym for 'gelisah' is 'resah', which also means restless but carries a slightly more negative connotation of distress. While 'gelisah' can describe general restlessness, 'resah' often implies deeper unease or worry, making it ideal for expressing more intense feelings.
Culture
'Gelisah' is derived from the Malay root word 'gelis', which means to move restlessly. This concept of restlessness is deeply intertwined with Malaysian culture, often reflecting a broader awareness of mental well-being. In traditional contexts, feelings of 'gelisah' may be seen as a call to introspection or spiritual reflection in order to find peace.
FAQ
Q.What does 'gelisah' mean in English?
'Gelisah' translates to 'restless' in English, indicating a state of unease or agitation. It is often used to describe feelings of anxiety or discomfort.
Q.How do you use 'gelisah' in a sentence?
You can use 'gelisah' by saying, 'Saya merasa gelisah sebelum presentasi,' which means 'I feel restless before the presentation.' This highlights personal feelings of restlessness effectively.
Q.Are there any common mistakes with 'gelisah'?
'Gelisah' is often confused with 'gelisah hati,' which means 'restlessness of the heart' and can imply emotional turmoil. It's important to use 'gelisah' alone for general restlessness to avoid conveying unintended emotional meanings.
Learn malay with Maspeak →
Malay Vocabulary