sejati

Sejati is an Indonesian adjective meaning genuine, authentic, or real. It is formed with the prefix se- plus the root jati, a term found in Malay and Indonesian that conveys essence, nature, or true character. The word emphasizes authenticity or truthfulness, rather than mere appearance or imitation.

Usage and nuance

Sejati is used to describe objects, traits, or identities that are thought to be true to their nature. For example, barang sejati refers to authentic goods, while sifat sejati or karakter sejati denotes a person’s true qualities. In literary or philosophical contexts, sejati can describe the true self or the essence of a thing, such as jiwa sejati (true soul) or hak sejati (one’s rightful nature).

Compared terms

Sejati is often related to and sometimes contrasted with asli (original or authentic in a generic sense) and nyata (real or tangible). While asli emphasizes originality or origin, sejati carries a stronger sense of intrinsic truth or fundamental nature.

Pronunciation and usage notes

Sejati is commonly used across formal and informal Indonesian. It can appear in everyday phrases, marketing language emphasizing authenticity, and more elevated discourse. In some cases, sejati may also appear as a proper noun when used as a name or place designation, and is capitalized accordingly.

See also

Keaslian, autentik, nyata, asli.