Melirik

Melirik is an Indonesian verb meaning to glance sideways with the eyes, typically with a brief and discreet movement rather than a full head turn. It can describe a literal action, such as looking at something from the corner of the eye, or a figurative one, like lightly assessing a situation or opportunity without committing attention to it.

In everyday use, melirik conveys nuance that depends on context. It may express curiosity, skepticism, flirtation, or discreet interest. Phrases such as melirik ke arah pintu (glance toward the door) or melirik peluang (glance at opportunities) illustrate its versatility in both concrete and abstract senses.

As a nonverbal cue, melirik is part of body language and can influence how a message is interpreted. The meaning is shaped by accompanying facial expressions, gaze duration, and other gestures, making it possible to signal attention, doubt, amusement, or attraction without words.

The term is widely used across Indonesian registers, from casual conversation to media writing. Its neutral core—simply looking sideways—allows it to carry varied tones depending on context, making it a common and versatile descriptive action in both spoken and written Indonesian.