Breakdown of Cabai itu sangat pedas, jadi saya segera minum air.
adalah
to be
itu
that
saya
I
minum
to drink
Questions & Answers about Cabai itu sangat pedas, jadi saya segera minum air.
What does itu mean here, and why is it placed after cabai?
Itu is a demonstrative meaning that or functioning like the (definite reference). When it follows a noun, it picks out a specific, known item: cabai itu = “that/the chili (previously mentioned).” If you say itu cabai, it’s more like pointing/identifying: “that is a chili.”
Is cabai singular or plural in this sentence?
Indonesian doesn’t mark plural by default. Cabai can be singular or plural depending on context. To make plural explicit, you can use:
- a number: dua cabai
- a quantifier: banyak cabai
- reduplication (more formal/written): cabai-cabai
Cabai itu could be “that chili” or “those chilies,” depending on context.
Is cabe also correct, or must it be cabai?
Both are understood. Cabai is the standard dictionary/spelling form; cabe is very common in everyday speech and informal writing. You’ll hear cabe rawit (bird’s eye chili) all the time.
How do you pronounce air here? It looks like English “air.”
It’s a false friend. Air means “water” and is pronounced in two syllables: “ah-eer.” Rough guide for the whole sentence: