Menghargai

Menghargai is an Indonesian verb that means to value, appreciate, or respect someone or something. It encompasses recognizing the worth of people, ideas, or phenomena, and can refer to both a person’s internal attitude and outward behavior such as fair treatment, consideration, and politeness. The term is often used in social and ethical contexts, including interpersonal relations, workplace interactions, and discussions about rights and values.

Etymology and form: menghargai is formed from the root hargai, derived from harga meaning price or value, with the affix me-ng- indicating an active verb. The form menghargai emphasizes the act of considering someone or something as having value.

Usage and nuance: Menghargai can apply to people (menghargai pendapat orang lain, menghargai jasa seseorang), to ideas (menghargai pendapat, menghargai karya), or to rights and resources (menghargai hak asasi). It often implies recognition of worth and appropriate consideration, rather than formal ceremonial respect alone. While related to menghormati (to respect), menghargai tends to stress value, appreciation, and fair treatment in everyday conduct.

Examples: Menghargai pendapat orang lain means valuing or considering others’ opinions; menghargai jasa para pendahulu berarti recognizing and valuing the contributions of predecessors.

See also: values, ethics, interpersonal communication, Bahasa Indonesia.