sekurangkurangnya

Sekurang-kurangnya is a fixed adverb used in Indonesian and Malay meaning at least or not less than. It introduces a minimum quantity, amount, or degree and is appropriate in both formal writing and everyday speech. The expression signals the lower bound of what is being described, rather than an exact figure.

Etymology and formation: The word is formed from the prefix se- attached to kurang, meaning less, with the suffixnya to mark reference to a minimum. The resulting phrase functions as an adverbial modifier that sets the minimum threshold for the statement that follows. It is commonly used across formal and informal contexts and can appear in different registers depending on the surrounding language.

Usage notes: Sekurang-kurangnya often replaces or reinforces the idea of setidaknya, providing a slightly more formal or emphatic tone in some contexts. It can modify numbers, time, effort, or other measures. For example: Sekurang-kurangnya ada sepuluh orang hadir. Sekurang-kurangnya dia berlatih selama sebulan. Sekurang-kurangnya dua jam diperlukan untuk menyelesaikan tugas tersebut. In informal speech, speakers may choose synonyms such as setidaknya or paling tidak, but sekurang-kurangnya remains widely understood.

Variants and synonyms: The phrase is closely related to setidaknya and paling tidak, which convey similar minimum notions. Minimal or the less formal minimalnya can also be used in contexts emphasizing a lower bound, though with slightly different nuance.

Overall, sekurang-kurangnya is a common, neutral expression for indicating a minimum level or amount in Indonesian and Malay.