What Does 'Apply' Mean in Indonesian? Unpacking 'Berlaku' and Beyond

Oct 28, 2025 by recoveryshake.com 44 views

What Does ‘Apply’ Mean in Indonesian? Unpacking ‘Berlaku’ and Beyond

When venturing into the rich tapestry of the Indonesian language, understanding the nuances of common English verbs like ‘apply’ can be a significant hurdle. While a direct, one-to-one translation often falls short, the Indonesian language offers a spectrum of words that capture the various contexts in which we use ‘apply.’ The most frequent and arguably most versatile translation that often comes to mind is ‘berlaku.’ However, to truly grasp the essence of ‘apply’ in Indonesian, we must delve deeper, exploring how this versatile verb can signify a rule being in effect, a principle being relevant, or even a cosmetic being put to use. This article will serve as your comprehensive guide, illuminating the different interpretations of ‘apply’ within the Indonesian linguistic landscape, ensuring you can communicate with clarity and confidence. We’ll examine the core meanings, explore synonyms and related concepts, and provide practical examples to solidify your understanding. Whether you’re a student of Bahasa Indonesia, a business professional engaging with Indonesian markets, or a traveler seeking to connect with locals, mastering these distinctions will significantly enhance your communication skills.

The Core Meaning: ‘Berlaku’ – When Rules and Principles Take Effect

The Indonesian word ‘berlaku’ is your primary go-to when you want to express that something is in effect, operative, or valid. This is the closest equivalent to ‘apply’ in the sense of rules, laws, policies, or principles being put into practice or considered relevant. For instance, if a new traffic law has been implemented, you would say, “Peraturan lalu lintas baru itu sekarang berlaku” (That new traffic regulation is now in effect/applies). Here, ‘berlaku’ signifies that the regulation is active and must be followed. Similarly, when discussing a discount or a special offer, you might hear, “Promo ini berlaku hingga akhir bulan” (This promotion applies/is valid until the end of the month). This usage highlights the temporal aspect of ‘berlaku,’ indicating the period during which something is applicable. It’s crucial to recognize that ‘berlaku’ carries a strong sense of officialdom and relevance; it’s not just about being present, but about being actively considered or enforced. The context is paramount. If you are in a meeting discussing a new company policy, and someone asks if it’s already in use, the answer would be “Ya, kebijakan baru itu sudah berlaku” (Yes, that new policy is already in effect/applies). This demonstrates the authoritative weight ‘berlaku’ carries. Furthermore, abstract concepts can also ‘berlaku.’ For example, the principle of mutual respect is considered universally applicable, which in Indonesian would be conveyed as, “Prinsip saling menghormati itu berlaku di mana saja” (The principle of mutual respect applies everywhere). The idea here is that the principle is relevant and should be considered in all situations. Understanding ‘berlaku’ opens a significant door to comprehending how Indonesian speakers express the concept of application in a formal and systematic sense. It’s not merely a word; it’s a linguistic cornerstone for understanding governance, policy, and ethical considerations within Indonesian society. The word itself, derived from ‘laku’ meaning ‘to walk’ or ‘to go,’ metaphorically suggests something that is moving forward, being enacted, or actively being put to use. This etymological insight further reinforces its meaning of being in force or in operation. When you hear or use ‘berlaku,’ think of something that has passed through a process of approval or establishment and is now active, influencing decisions or actions. This deep dive into ‘berlaku’ is essential for anyone looking to achieve fluency and a nuanced understanding of the Indonesian language.

‘Berlaku’ in Formal Contexts: Laws, Policies, and Regulations

In formal settings, the usage of ‘berlaku’ becomes even more pronounced and specific. When discussing legal frameworks, governmental decrees, or organizational policies, ‘berlaku’ is the indispensable verb. For instance, a new piece of legislation passed by the Indonesian parliament is said to ‘berlaku’ after it has been ratified and officially announced. The statement, “Undang-undang anti-korupsi yang baru akan berlaku bulan depan” (The new anti-corruption law will apply/come into effect next month), clearly indicates the commencement of the law’s enforcement. Similarly, within a corporate environment, employment contracts, company regulations, and internal policies all ‘berlaku’ for employees. A manager might inform their team, “Aturan baru mengenai jam kerja ini berlaku mulai Senin” (This new rule regarding working hours applies starting Monday). This emphasizes the binding nature of the rule. The concept of validity is also strongly tied to ‘berlaku.’ For example, an ID card or a passport ‘berlaku’ for a certain period. “Kartu identitas Anda berlaku selama lima tahun” (Your ID card is valid for five years) is a common phrase you might encounter. This aspect of validity extends to certifications, licenses, and any document that has an expiration date. In international business, understanding when treaties or trade agreements ‘berlaku’ between Indonesia and other nations is critical for compliance. The phrase “Perjanjian dagang itu berlaku untuk kedua negara” (That trade agreement applies to both countries) highlights the scope and reach of such agreements. Moreover, ‘berlaku’ is used to signify that a particular principle or standard is expected to be adhered to. In educational institutions, for example, academic integrity rules ‘berlaku’ for all students. “Prinsip kejujuran akademik berlaku bagi semua mahasiswa” (The principle of academic honesty applies to all students). This demonstrates that ‘berlaku’ is not only about external rules but also about established norms and expectations within a community. The precision of ‘berlaku’ in these formal contexts is what makes it such a powerful tool for clear communication in Indonesian. It removes ambiguity and ensures that all parties understand the scope and duration of an obligation or a right. Therefore, when dealing with any situation that involves rules, regulations, or official pronouncements in Indonesia, ‘berlaku’ will very likely be the key term to convey that something is in force and must be heeded.

Beyond ‘Berlaku’: Other Shades of ‘Apply’

While ‘berlaku’ is the most common translation for ‘apply,’ the Indonesian language, with its rich expressiveness, offers other terms to capture different facets of the English verb. One significant alternative arises when ‘apply’ refers to the act of putting something to use in a practical, often physical, manner. In such cases, words like ‘menggunakan’ (to use), ‘menerapkan’ (to apply, implement, or put into practice), or even ‘memakai’ (to wear or use) come into play, depending on the specific context. For instance, if you are talking about applying makeup, you wouldn’t use ‘berlaku.’ Instead, you would say, “Saya sedang memakai riasan di wajah saya” (I am applying makeup to my face) or “Dia menerapkan foundation dengan hati-hati” (She applied foundation carefully). Here, ‘memakai’ and ‘menerapkan’ convey the action of putting something onto a surface or body. Similarly, when you are applying a new technique or strategy in a project, ‘menerapkan’ is the more appropriate term. For example, “Kami akan menerapkan strategi pemasaran baru ini tahun depan” (We will apply this new marketing strategy next year). This usage of ‘menerapkan’ emphasizes the active implementation and putting into practice of an idea or plan. Another important distinction arises when ‘apply’ refers to seeking employment or admission to a program. In this context, the Indonesian verb is ‘melamar.’ So, if someone is applying for a job, they are ‘melamar pekerjaan.’ “Dia sedang melamar pekerjaan di perusahaan teknologi itu” (He is applying for a job at that technology company). Likewise, applying to university is ‘melamar masuk universitas.’ This specific verb highlights the process of making a formal request or petition. Furthermore, in the scientific or technical realm, when a theory or principle is applied to a problem or a situation, ‘mengaplikasikan’ is often used. This is a loanword from English and is frequently encountered in academic or professional discussions. For instance, “Para ilmuwan mengaplikasikan teori relativitas untuk memahami alam semesta” (Scientists apply the theory of relativity to understand the universe). While ‘menerapkan’ can also be used here, ‘mengaplikasikan’ carries a more scholarly or technical connotation. It’s important to note that the choice of verb can subtly alter the meaning and the register of your communication. Being aware of these alternatives allows for more precise and natural-sounding Indonesian. This exploration moves us beyond the singular focus on ‘berlaku’ and reveals a richer, more nuanced understanding of how the concept of ‘apply’ is articulated in Bahasa Indonesia, reflecting the language’s adaptability and its capacity to express complex ideas through a varied lexicon.

‘Melamar’: The Act of Seeking Opportunities

When the English verb ‘apply’ is used in the context of seeking employment, admission to an educational institution, or a position, the Indonesian equivalent is consistently ‘melamar.’ This verb specifically denotes the act of making a formal application or petition for something, usually a job or a place in a program. For instance, a job seeker would ‘melamar pekerjaan’ (apply for a job). The sentence, “Banyak lulusan baru sedang melamar posisi magang” (Many recent graduates are applying for internship positions), clearly illustrates this usage. It signifies the proactive step taken by an individual to express their interest and suitability for an opportunity. Similarly, in the academic sphere, students ‘melamar masuk universitas’ (apply to enter university) or ‘melamar beasiswa’ (apply for a scholarship). This involves submitting applications, résumés, transcripts, and often essays to demonstrate their qualifications and aspirations. The phrase “Pendaftaran untuk program master dibuka; Anda bisa mulai melamar sekarang” (Registration for the master’s program is open; you can start applying now) indicates the official commencement of the application period. ‘Melamar’ carries a sense of earnestness and a formal request. It’s more than just expressing interest; it’s a structured process of putting oneself forward for consideration. Understanding this distinction is vital for anyone navigating the Indonesian job market or educational system. Using ‘berlaku’ in this context would be entirely incorrect, as ‘berlaku’ refers to something being in effect, not the act of seeking it. The word ‘melamar’ itself suggests a proposal or an offer of oneself for a role or a chance. It’s a fundamental term for anyone looking to advance their career or education in Indonesia. Therefore, when you hear or read about individuals seeking new roles or opportunities, remember that ‘melamar’ is the precise verb that captures their action.

‘Menerapkan’ and ‘Mengaplikasikan’: Putting Ideas and Knowledge into Practice

The Indonesian verbs ‘menerapkan’ and ‘mengaplikasikan’ are used when ‘apply’ refers to the act of putting something into practice, implementing an idea, or applying knowledge to a specific situation. While often interchangeable, there can be subtle differences in their usage and formality. ‘Menerapkan’ is a more general term that signifies the implementation or application of a rule, method, principle, or strategy. It’s widely used in everyday conversation and in various professional contexts. For example, a teacher might tell their students, “Kalian harus menerapkan apa yang telah kalian pelajari” (You must apply what you have learned). This emphasizes the practical use of acquired knowledge. In business, a company might decide to ‘menerapkan’ a new business model or a different management approach. “Perusahaan kami berencana menerapkan sistem kerja fleksibel” (Our company plans to implement a flexible work system). This shows the active process of putting a plan into action. ‘Mengaplikasikan’, on the other hand, is often considered a more formal or academic term, directly borrowed from the English word ‘application.’ It is frequently used in scientific, technical, and scholarly discussions where complex theories, formulas, or concepts are being applied. For instance, a physicist might discuss how a particular theory is ‘diaplikasikan’ to solve a complex problem in quantum mechanics. “Prinsip-prinsip fisika kuantum diaplikasikan dalam pengembangan teknologi laser” (Principles of quantum physics are applied in the development of laser technology). While ‘menerapkan’ can also be used in these contexts, ‘mengaplikasikan’ lends a more sophisticated and technical tone. It highlights the intellectual act of transferring theoretical knowledge to a practical domain. It’s important to remember that both verbs convey the idea of active engagement and utilization. They move beyond mere understanding to actual implementation. When you’re considering how to translate ‘apply’ in a context that involves putting something into practice, consider the level of formality and the specific nature of what is being applied. If it’s a general strategy or a learned skill, ‘menerapkan’ is usually a safe and effective choice. If it’s a complex scientific principle or a technical methodology, ‘mengaplikasikan’ might be more precise and appropriate. Mastering the usage of both these verbs will significantly enhance your ability to communicate sophisticated ideas in Indonesian.

Context is Key: Choosing the Right Indonesian Word

The most critical takeaway when translating ‘apply’ into Indonesian is that context is king. There is no single, universally correct translation. The specific meaning you intend to convey will dictate the most appropriate Indonesian word. As we’ve explored, ‘berlaku’ is your primary choice for rules, policies, and principles being in effect or valid. It signifies something that is operative and has force. Think of laws, regulations, and ongoing conditions. ‘Melamar’ is exclusively used for the act of seeking employment, admission, or a specific opportunity. It’s about making a request for oneself. ‘Menerapkan’ and ‘mengaplikasikan’ are for the practical implementation of ideas, strategies, knowledge, or theories. ‘Menerapkan’ is more general, while ‘mengaplikasikan’ leans towards more technical or academic applications. Beyond these main contenders, other verbs might surface depending on the very specific nuance. For example, if you’re applying a coating or a substance, like paint or glue, you might use ‘mengoleskan’ (to spread/apply) or ‘mengecat’ (to paint). If you’re applying for a loan, you would ‘mengajukan permohonan pinjaman’ (submit a loan application), where ‘mengajukan’ means to propose or submit. Understanding the core semantic fields of these Indonesian words is paramount. It’s about moving beyond literal translation and grasping the functional equivalence within the Indonesian linguistic system. When you encounter the English word ‘apply,’ pause and ask yourself: ‘What exactly am I trying to say?’ Am I talking about a rule being active? Am I seeking a job? Am I putting a strategy into action? Am I spreading a cream? By answering these questions, you can confidently select the most fitting Indonesian word. This conscious effort to match meaning to context will not only prevent misunderstandings but also elevate your Indonesian proficiency, allowing for more natural and effective communication. It’s a journey of linguistic discovery that rewards careful attention and practice. So, the next time you need to express the idea of ‘apply’ in Indonesian, remember the spectrum of possibilities and choose wisely based on the situation.

Practical Scenarios and Examples

To solidify your understanding of when to use which Indonesian word for ‘apply,’ let’s look at some practical scenarios. Imagine you are in Indonesia and want to know if a particular discount is still valid. You would ask: “Apakah diskon ini masih berlaku?” (Does this discount still apply/is it still valid?). Here, ‘berlaku’ is used because you are inquiring about the validity of an offer. Now, consider a situation where you are helping a friend prepare their job application. You might advise them: “Pastikan kamu melamar ke beberapa perusahaan” (Make sure you apply to several companies). In this case, ‘melamar’ is the correct verb, referring to the act of seeking employment. If you are discussing a new policy at your workplace, and someone asks about its implementation, the response would be: “Ya, kebijakan baru ini akan segera diterapkan” (Yes, this new policy will be implemented soon). Here, ‘diterapkan’ (passive form of menerapkan) signifies the practical application of the policy. In a university setting, a professor might encourage students to use their knowledge: “Cobalah terapkan teori ini dalam proyek kelompok kalian” (Try to apply this theory in your group project). Again, ‘terapkan’ (passive form of menerapkan) is used for putting knowledge into practice. For more advanced contexts, like scientific research, you might hear: “Para insinyur mengaplikasikan prinsip-prinsip aerodinamika” (The engineers apply the principles of aerodynamics). ‘Mengaplikasikan’ is used here to denote the application of scientific principles in a technical field. Even in everyday situations, like applying sunscreen, you would say: “Oleskan tabir surya ini ke kulitmu” (Apply this sunscreen to your skin). The verb ‘oleskan’ (imperative form of mengoleskan) is used for spreading something onto a surface. These examples demonstrate the diverse ways ‘apply’ is conveyed in Indonesian, highlighting the importance of context. By internalizing these practical examples, you build a stronger intuition for choosing the right word, making your Indonesian communication more accurate and effective.

Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Contextual Translation

In conclusion, the English verb ‘apply’ is a prime example of how direct translation can be misleading. The Indonesian language offers a rich vocabulary to express the various meanings encapsulated by ‘apply,’ with ‘berlaku,’ ‘melamar,’ ‘menerapkan,’ and ‘mengaplikasikan’ being the most prominent. Understanding when to use each word hinges entirely on context. ‘Berlaku’ governs the realm of rules, policies, and validity. ‘Melamar’ is for job and admission applications. ‘Menerapkan’ and ‘mengaplikasikan’ cover the practical implementation of ideas, knowledge, and theories, with the latter often carrying a more technical or academic tone. By internalizing the nuances of these verbs and practicing their usage in different scenarios, you can significantly enhance your fluency and accuracy in Indonesian. This journey into the specifics of ‘apply’ is a microcosm of mastering any foreign language: it requires careful observation, contextual analysis, and consistent practice. The ability to choose the right word demonstrates not just linguistic knowledge, but a deeper cultural and situational awareness. As you continue your language learning, always remember to ask yourself, “What is the underlying meaning I wish to convey?” This self-reflection will guide you to the most appropriate Indonesian term, ensuring your communication is clear, precise, and natural. Keep practicing, and you will undoubtedly master the art of contextual translation in Indonesian.