Questions & Answers about Anak-anak dilarang bermain di peron.
Why is anak-anak written with a hyphen? Does the reduplication just mark plural?
The hyphen shows reduplication, a common way to mark plurality or variety. Anak = child; anak-anak = children. Always keep the hyphen; writing anak anak (with a space) is incorrect. Reduplication can also add nuances like “various kinds,” not only plural, but here it’s straightforwardly “children.”
Could I just say anak to mean “children”?
Sometimes context allows singular anak to be read generically, but it can be ambiguous. Anak-anak is the clearest way to say “children.” Other plural strategies:
- With numbers/quantifiers: dua anak, banyak anak, beberapa anak
- With para (mostly for people, formal): para siswa, but para anak is uncommon; people usually stick with anak-anak.
What exactly is dilarang? Is it passive?
Yes. Di- is the passive prefix + the root larang (forbid). Dilarang literally “is/are forbidden.” On signs, Indonesian often uses this impersonal passive: Dilarang merokok (No smoking), Dilarang parkir (No parking).
Why is there no word for “are” (like “are forbidden”)?