bisa — meaning in English: can

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ingin

bisa

tiga belas

datang

rasa

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neutral very common

Usage

Native speakers often use 'bisa' in everyday conversations when asking about ability or possibility. For example, a student might ask a teacher, 'Bisa saya pergi ke toilet?' (Can I go to the restroom?) during class, or friends might discuss plans, saying, 'Bisa kita pergi makan malam hari ini?' (Can we go to dinner today?).

Synonyms & nuances

'Bisa' is often used interchangeably with 'dapat,' but 'dapat' can carry a slightly more formal tone or denote a stronger sense of capability. You would choose 'bisa' in casual contexts while reserving 'dapat' for more formal situations or written communication.

Culture

'Bisa' is derived from the Malay root word that conveys capability and has roots in the broader Austronesian language family. Its usage reflects the communal nature of Malay culture, where asking for permission or discussing capabilities is often done collaboratively in social settings. The word has evolved to be an essential part of polite discourse in daily interactions.

FAQ

Q.What does 'bisa' mean in English?

'Bisa' translates to 'can' in English, indicating ability or possibility in various contexts.

Q.How do I use 'bisa' in a sentence?

You can use 'bisa' to ask about permission or ability, for example: 'Bisa saya membantu?' (Can I help?) or 'Bisa kamu datang besok?' (Can you come tomorrow?).

Q.Is 'bisa' used in formal writing?

'Bisa' is primarily used in neutral, everyday conversation. For formal writing or situations, 'dapat' may be preferred.

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Malay Vocabulary