Malay · Common Verbs
mencari
To look for
Beginnerverb
Definition
To try to find something.
Example
Saya mencari kunci saya.
I am looking for my keys.
Etymology
Derived from the root word 'cari,' 'mencari' combines the prefix 'men-' which indicates the act of doing, thus translating to 'to look for.' It has been part of Malay vocabulary reflecting a fundamental human action.
How & Where It’s Used
'Mencari' is often used in both spoken and written Malay, in casual conversations as well as formal contexts. It retains similar meanings across different regional varieties including Malaysian and Indonesian.