buruk

Buruk is an adjective used in Indonesian and Malay meaning bad, poor in quality, or unattractive. It can describe objects, outcomes, or behavior, and its connotation is generally negative. The term is versatile across registers, from everyday speech to more formal writing, though its strength depends on context.

Common compounds and phrases include buruk rupa, meaning an ugly appearance; buruk perangai, referring to bad character or behavior; and nasib buruk, meaning bad luck. The expression buruk sangka describes ill will or mistrust toward others. Another related expression is bahasa buruk, used to critique poor language or speech. These phrases illustrate how buruk can pair with nouns or appear in fixed collocations to express specific negative ideas.

Usage notes emphasize that buruk often functions as a standard negative modifier. In many phrases, it precedes the noun (buruk rupa: ugly appearance), while in others it follows the noun (nasib buruk: bad luck). The word can apply to physical attributes, material quality, or moral judgments, though it is not as strong as some harsher terms when describing people.

Etymology and varieties: buruk is a native word in the Malay-speaking world and is common across Indonesian and Malay dialects. It has cognates in related languages of the region and appears in historical and contemporary texts to convey negativity about quality, appearance, or behavior.

See also: Indonesian and Malay adjectives, common phrases using buruk, cultural nuances in language evaluation.