Malay · Travel & Places
kereta api
Train
Beginnernoun
Definition
A train, literally fire carriage; kereta alone means car in Malay.
Example
Kami naik kereta api ke Ipoh.
We take the train to Ipoh.
Etymology
'Kereta api' directly translates to 'train' in Malay, combining the words for 'carriage' and 'fire', indicating steam trains in earlier usage.
How & Where It’s Used
'Kereta api' is used formally in transportation discussions and tickets, as well as informally in everyday conversation.