Learn Hardcore Indonesian: Saya simpan lampu cadangan di lemari.

In standard Indonesian, the transitive verb “keep/store” normally takes the prefix me-, giving menyimpan. However, in everyday speech or informal writing, speakers often drop the me- when a subject pronoun (like saya) directly precedes it. So Saya simpan is a colloquial shortcut for Saya menyimpan, meaning “I keep” or “I store.”

Could you use Saya menyimpan lampu cadangan di lemari instead?

Yes. Saya menyimpan lampu cadangan di lemari is perfectly correct and slightly more formal or “complete.” Both sentences convey the same meaning, but the version with menyimpan simply follows the textbook me-verb pattern.

What exactly does lampu cadangan mean?

Lampu means “lamp” or “light,” and cadangan means “reserve,” “backup,” or “spare.” Together, lampu cadangan literally means “spare lamp” or “backup light.” It refers to an extra lamp kept for emergencies or replacements.

Why is there no word for “a” or “the” before lampu cadangan?

Indonesian does not use articles like a, an, or the. Whether you refer to one or many, definite or indefinite items, you simply state the noun. Context (and sometimes number words) tells you if it’s singular or plural, definite or indefinite.

What role does di play in di lemari?

Di is a preposition meaning “in,” “on,” or “at,” depending on context. When you say di lemari, you mean “in the cupboard/closet.” It marks the location of the action (where you keep the lamp).

Can I move di lemari to the beginning? Like Di lemari saya simpan lampu cadangan?

Yes. Indonesian word order is relatively flexible. Starting with Di lemari places extra emphasis on the location: “It’s in the cupboard that I keep the spare lamp.” Otherwise, the meaning stays the same.

Is it okay to drop saya and just say Simpan lampu cadangan di lemari?

You can, but the nuance changes. Without saya, Simpan lampu cadangan di lemari sounds like an instruction or reminder: “(You) keep the spare lamp in the closet.” If you omit saya in a declarative context, it may feel incomplete or like you’re giving a command.

What’s the difference between lemari and almari?

Both words mean “wardrobe,” “cabinet,” or “closet.” Lemari is purely Indonesian, while almari is borrowed from Dutch almaar. They’re interchangeable in most regions, though some speakers might prefer one over the other based on local habit.