minat

Minat is a noun in Indonesian and Malay meaning interest, inclination, or enthusiasm toward something. It can refer to a person’s interest in a subject, activity, or field, a consumer’s or citizen’s expressed preference, or a general tendency.

In usage, phrases such as minat terhadap seni (an interest in the arts) or minat belajar (learning interest) are common. Minat can be described as a stable orientation rather than a momentary urge. It can shape choices and commitments over time, such as subject selection, hobbies, or career considerations.

Minat differs from motivasi (motivation) and keinginan (desire). It conveys attraction or preference that can underlie ongoing engagement, whereas motivation is the drive to act and desire is a wish that may be temporary or fleeting. The term can also appear in discussions of talent or aptitude when paired with minat bakat (interest and talent).

Linguistic notes: the related verb meminati means “to take an interest in,” and diminati is the passive form indicating that something “is of interest” to someone. These forms are used in formal and informal language contexts.

In education and market research, minat is used to guide counseling, subject and career planning, or to gauge demand and consumer segments through inventories and surveys. It helps identify preferences and potential areas for development or investment.

Etymology: minat is native to Indonesian and Malay; precise historical origins are not always specified in standard references, but the term is well established in both languages. See also preferensi, keinginan, motivasi.