mendekat

Mendekat is an Indonesian verb meaning to move toward something or someone, or to come nearer. It can describe a physical approach, such as advancing toward a location, or a figurative closening, such as drawing nearer in relationship or understanding.

Etymology and form: Mendekat is formed from the adjective dekat (near) with the prefix me-, which yields an intransitive verb meaning to approach or get closer. Related derivatives include mendekatkan, which is the causative form meaning to bring something or someone closer, or to make a relationship closer. The word is common in Indonesian and shares cognates with Malay.

Usage and syntax: Mendekat is typically used with direction or target introduced by ke or kepada, for example, "Dia mendekat ke pintu" or "Saya mendekat kepada dia." It can describe a subject moving closer, or a person bringing an object nearer, as in "Mereka mendekatkan kursi ke pintu." Figuratively, mendekat can be used to describe increasing closeness in non-physical senses, such as efforts to mendekatkan hubungan antara pihak-pihak terkait.

Nuance and distinctions: Mendekat contrasts with mendekatkan, which explicitly conveys making something closer or bringing it closer, often implying an agent acting on an object. Kedekatan (nearness) is a related noun referring to the state of being near.

In summary, mendekat is a versatile Indonesian verb for approaching or drawing nearer, with mendekatkan serving as a causative form to effect closeness.