belajar

Belajar is an Indonesian verb meaning to learn or to study. It is used to describe the process of acquiring knowledge or skills through study, practice, or experience. The term is formed in Indonesian by the prefix ber- attached to ajar, where ajar means teaching or lesson, reflecting the reciprocal nature of learning.

In everyday use, belajar occurs in formal contexts such as sekolah, universitas, and kursus, as well as informal settings like home, community programs, or self-directed study. It encompasses various activities, including reading, listening, practicing tasks, and reflecting on outcomes. Common modalities include membaca (reading), mendengarkan (listening), berdiskusi (discussing), and praktik (practice). Effective belajar often involves planning, setting goals, seeking feedback, and adapting strategies.

Belajar also carries cultural importance in Indonesia and other Malay-speaking communities, where lifelong learning is encouraged. The phrase belajar sepanjang hayat emphasizes continuous improvement beyond formal education. Modern approaches increasingly recognize metacognition, self-regulated learning, and the use of digital resources to support belajar.

Common misconceptions may equate belajar with memorization alone; in educational practice, understanding and application are emphasized alongside recall. Distinctions exist among belajar (to learn), mengajar (to teach), and ajar (lesson), reflecting the broader dynamic between learner and educator.