Indonesian · Common Verbs
adalah
To be (is/are)
Beginnerverb
Definition
Links a subject with a noun; often omitted in casual speech.
Example
Jakarta adalah ibu kota Indonesia.
Jakarta is the capital of Indonesia.
Etymology
'Adalah' comes from the Arabic word 'dhin', used in the context of being or existence. It signifies identity or description in Indonesian.
How & Where It’s Used
'Adalah' is predominantly used in formal contexts, such as academic and literary works, to define or explain. It is more common in written Indonesian but understood in spoken language as well.