All about the prefix "mem-". I am so confused to use verbs with the prefix "mem". Some say the prefix "mem" make a root word a verb, for example, a root word "beli" can be "membeli" adding "mem".

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Pascal

All about the prefix "mem-". I am so confused to use verbs with the prefix "mem". Some say the prefix "mem" make a root word a verb, for example, a root word "beli" can be "membeli" adding "mem". As far as know, "beli" itself is already a verb meaning "to buy", I think there is no need one more verb adding "mem". What the difference between "beli" and "membeli"?? "saya tengah beli kasut" or "saya tengah membeli kasut" otherwise "saya membeli kasut"? (for "I am buying a pair of shoes") Thanks in advance. :)

Jan 7, 2011 3:42 PM

Answers · 10

the prefix "mem" is add when you want to make it grammatically correct when writing. actually you are correct..the word 'beli' itself is a verb meaning 'to buy' when u use the word 'membeli'.. it makes the sentence more formal. so the difference between both word - 'beli' is less formal while 'membeli' is fomal.. the example of sentence for this one: "saya tengah beli kasut" = i am buying a pair of shoes is less formal and people tend to use this one when communicating with others while this one: "saya tengah membeli kasut" = i am buying a pair of shoes is more formal and people tend to use it when writing while this one: "saya membeli kasut" = i buy a pair of shoes okay..that's all i hope u can understand it..

January 7, 2011