memuji

Memuji is an Indonesian verb meaning to praise, compliment, or commend someone or something. It is a transitive verb that requires a direct object, as in examples like dia memuji kerja kerasnya or orang tua memuji anaknya atas prestasinya. The act refers to expressing approval or admiration.

Etymology and grammar: The word memuji is formed from the root puji (to praise) with the prefix mem-, which creates an active transitive verb. In Indonesian phonology, prefixes may assimilate with the following consonant, but memuji remains the standard form for this meaning. The corresponding passive voice is dipuji, meaning to be praised.

Usage and nuance: Memuji is versatile in both formal and informal contexts. It can be followed by nouns or noun phrases such as memuji kualitas, memuji keberanian, or memuji prestasi. The noun form pujian refers to the praise itself, as in giving or receiving pujian. Memuji often connotes sincere approval, while other terms related to positive expressions—such as memuliakan or memuja—carry stronger or different nuances (glorification or worship, respectively).

See also and related terms: pujian (praise), puji (to praise), memuliakan (to exalt or glorify), memuja (to worship or adore), menghormati (to respect).

In summary, memuji is a common Indonesian verb used to express positive evaluation of people, actions, or qualities, with a neutral to positive connotation appropriate for everyday and formal discourse.