Diasuh

Diasuh is an Indonesian word that functions as the passive form of the verb asuh, meaning to care for, nurture, or raise someone. In use, diasuh describes a situation in which a person—often a child—is cared for or raised by another person such as a parent, guardian, or caregiver. The construction typically employs the prefix di- to mark passive voice and can be followed by oleh to indicate the agent performing the care, for example, diasuh oleh neneknya.

Etymology and grammar: Diasuh derives from asuh with the passive prefix di-. It denotes a recipient-focused state of care rather than the act of caring itself. The agent performing the care may be omitted when understood from context. The term is common in both everyday speech and formal writing when describing upbringing, guardianship, or caregiving arrangements.

Usage and nuance: Asuh emphasizes the act of caring, while diasuh foregrounds the recipient’s experience of being cared for. Diasuh can refer to past or ongoing care and is frequently used to convey nurturing, guardianship, or upbringing. Related terms include mengasuh (to care for in active voice), dirawat (to be cared for or treated), and dibesarkan (raised). The noun pengasuhan (caregiving or upbringing) is also related.

Examples: Anak itu diasuh oleh neneknya sejak kecil. (The child was raised by his grandmother since he was small.) Program ini menjamin bayi diasuh dengan kasih sayang. (The program ensures that babies are cared for with affection.)

See also: asuh, mengasuh, dirawat, dibesarkan, pengasuhan.

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