kaget

Kaget is an Indonesian word that functions as an adjective or an intransitive verb meaning to be surprised or startled. It is used to describe a sudden emotional reaction to unexpected information, events, or sights. The term is common in everyday speech, social media, and entertainment discourse, and is less frequent in formal writing where more formal synonyms like terkejut or terperanjat are preferred.

Etymology and classification: The exact origin of kaget is not firmly established in scholarly sources. It is generally treated as native Indonesian vocabulary with wide usage across the archipelago. It can be intensified with adverbs such as kaget banget or sangat kaget to express stronger surprise.

Usage: In sentences, kaget can be used with subjects like Saya kaget, Kamu kaget, or Dia kaget. Examples include: Saya kaget mendengar kabar itu, Dia kaget saat melihat harga tiketnya. The word can also function as an interjection in informal contexts, for example simply saying “Kaget!” to convey immediate shock.

Register and variation: While highly recognizable in informal Indonesian, kaget is not typically used in formal writing. Alternatives such as terkejut or terperanjat may be chosen for formal contexts. The term is also known in some Malay-speaking communities, though its usage is more characteristic of Indonesian everyday language.

See also: Bahasa Indonesia, Malay language, terkejut, terperanjat.