Learn Hardcore Indonesian: Kopi ini terlalu panas.

Ini is a demonstrative that means “this”. In Indonesian, it follows the noun it modifies—so kopi ini means “this coffee” rather than placing the demonstrative before the noun as in English.

What role does terlalu play in the phrase terlalu panas?

Terlalu functions as an intensifier meaning “too”. It indicates that the coffee is excessively hot, beyond just being hot.

Why is there no linking verb (such as is) in the sentence Kopi ini terlalu panas?

Indonesian often omits a linking verb in descriptive sentences. The state or quality of the subject is directly expressed by the adjectives, so kopi ini terlalu panas conveys “This coffee is too hot” without needing an equivalent of is.

How does the word order in Kopi ini terlalu panas differ from the English equivalent?

In Indonesian, the demonstrative ini comes after the noun, unlike in English where “this” would precede the noun. Additionally, the omission of a linking verb makes the Indonesian sentence more concise compared to the English structure.

What is the difference between using terlalu and sangat for intensification?

Both are intensifiers, but they convey different degrees. Sangat means “very” and suggests a high degree without a negative implication, while terlalu means “too” and implies an excessive or potentially undesirable level. Thus, kopi ini sangat panas would mean “This coffee is very hot,” and kopi ini terlalu panas emphasizes that it is “too hot” to be ideal.