Membunuhnya

Membunuhnya is an Indonesian verb phrase that means to kill him, her, or it. It combines the verb membunuh, meaning to kill, with the pronominal object suffix -nya, which refers to a previously mentioned or definite target. The phrase is used to indicate the act of killing in which the object is known from context.

Morphology and grammar

Membunuh is formed from the root bunuh (to kill) with the prefix me-, a common Indonesian verb marker. The suffix -nya attaches directly to the verb to represent the direct object as a pronoun. Thus membunuhnya literally reads as “kill-him/her/it.” The pronoun itu does not encode gender and can refer to a person, an animal, or a thing, depending on context. In full sentences, the subject precedes the phrase: Dia membunuhnya (He killed him/her). The object pronoun can also appear in non-definite constructions using explicit phrases such as membunuh seseorang (to kill someone) or membunuh itu (to kill that one).

Usage and context

Membunuhnya is common in narratives, journalism, and dialogue when the object is known or identifiable. It is inherently a verb phrase and typically requires a subject to form a complete clause. In negative or interrogative contexts, the object pronoun remains attached: Dia tidak membunuhnya, Apa yang membunuhnya? The phrase should be understood within standard Indonesian grammar and registers; it is not a standalone noun.

Notes

The -nya suffix functions as an object pronoun attached to the verb rather than as a possessive marker. Its use clarifies who or what is being referenced in contexts where the object has already been established.