Sekali

Sekali is a word used in Indonesian and Malay as an adverb with multiple related meanings. Primarily it denotes a single occurrence, equivalent to "one time" or "once." It can also function as an intensifier meaning "very" or "extremely" when placed before adjectives or verbs. The form sekali-sekali appears to indicate infrequency, roughly meaning "occasionally" or "every now and then."

Etymology and usage context. The word combines se- (a prefix signaling single or one) with kali (times), originally conveying a single occurrence. In modern usage, its sense has broadened to serve both temporal and degree-modifying roles in everyday speech, across formal and informal registers in both languages.

Temporal usage. As a temporal marker, sekali means that something happens one time. Examples include: Saya makan sekali. (I ate once.) Dia datang sekali. (He came once.) The expression sekali lagi means "one more time" or "again." Sekali-sekali is used to express occasional repetition, roughly "occasionally" or "every now and then."

Intensifier usage. As a degree adverb, sekali follows adjectives or verbs to convey strong emphasis, similar to "very" or "extremely." Examples: Enak sekali! (Delicious indeed!/Very tasty!) Cantik sekali. (Very beautiful.) This usage is common in everyday Indonesian and Malay.

Variants and related phrases. Sekali-sekali expresses infrequent action, while sekali digunakan in combinations like sekali lagi for a request or action to be repeated once more. The word contrasts with sekalian, which has a different meaning and usage.

See also. Indonesian and Malay grammar; frequency adverbs; intensifiers.