seterusnya

Seterusnya is a Malay word meaning "the next" or "thereafter." It is used to indicate sequence, to introduce subsequent steps or items, and can function as an adverb, a noun phrase, or a transitional marker in speech and writing.

In usage, seterusnya often appears at the start of a clause to signal progression: "Seterusnya, kita akan membincangkan data tersebut." It is common in both spoken Malay and formal writing as a transitional element. The term can also label parts of a document or speech, for example in headings or in phrases such as "Bab seterusnya" or "Seterusnya menjelaskan...," to denote the upcoming section or point.

Origin and regional usage: Seterusnya is of Malay origin, formed with affixes that convey order and continuation. In Indonesian, a closely related meaning exists, but the exact word seterusnya is less common; Indonesian texts more frequently use "selanjutnya" or "berikutnya" to express the same idea. Therefore, seterusnya is typically encountered in Malay-speaking contexts (Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei) and in Malay-language media, manuals, and education, while Indonesian-language usage tends to prefer its equivalents.

See also: selanjutnya, berikutnya, kemudian. Examples illustrate its role as a transitional element and as a label for the next section in a discourse.