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Questions & Answers about Bukunya baru.
What does the suffix -nya on bukunya represent?
The -nya suffix can serve two main functions:
- Definiteness – marking “the book” rather than just “a book.”
- Possession – marking “his/her book.”
In a neutral context, bukunya simply means “the book.”
Why is there no verb like “is” in Bukunya baru?
Indonesian typically omits the copula “to be” in sentences that link a noun to an adjective. You simply place the noun and adjective side by side:
- Bukunya baru = [the book] [new] = “The book is new.”
What part of speech is baru in this sentence?
Here, baru functions as an adjective, meaning “new.” It describes the state or quality of bukunya.
How can I tell if baru means “new” or “just”?
• “New” sense (adjective): comes after a noun
– buku baru = a new book / the book is new
• “Just” sense (adverb): comes before a verb
– Saya baru datang = I just arrived
Since baru follows bukunya, it’s the adjective meaning “new.”
Why not simply say buku baru?
- buku baru (no -nya) is primarily a noun phrase – “new book.”
- bukunya baru turns it into a full sentence with a definite subject:
Bukunya baru = “The book is new.”
Do adjectives in Indonesian always follow nouns?
Yes. Indonesian adjectives always come after the noun they modify:
- buku baru (“new book”)
- mobil merah (“red car”)
You never say baru buku or merah mobil.
How would I express “the books are new” (plural)?
You can indicate plurality by reduplication or by using a demonstrative:
- Buku-bukunya baru = “The books are new.”
- Buku-buku itu baru = “Those books are new.”
Could Bukunya baru also mean “his/her book is new”?
Yes. Because -nya can mark possession, the sentence can mean “His/her book is new.” Context usually clarifies whether it’s the book (definite) or his/her book (possessive).