sewaktuwaktu

Sewaktuwaktu is an Indonesian adverb meaning at any time, whenever, or without a fixed time. It is used to describe actions or events that may occur without a predetermined moment, indicating flexibility in timing or a requirement that could arise without notice.

The form sewaktuwaktu is a variant of the more common hyphenated sewaktu-waktu. Both renditions are found in Indonesian writing, with the hyphenated version often preferred in formal contexts. The word derives from the prefix se-, which can convey a generalized or indefinite sense, combined with waktu, meaning time.

In usage, sewaktuwaktu signals unpredictability or readiness to act at an unspecified moment. Examples include: Keputusan itu bisa diambil sewaktuwaktu, and Layanan ini tersedia sewaktuwaktu. In legal or administrative texts, the term emphasizes that a status or action is not tied to a fixed schedule and may occur whenever necessary.

Semantically, sewaktuwaktu is closely related to phrases such as kapan saja or bilamana, which also express indefiniteness of time. It contrasts with expressions that fix a specific day or hour, such as pada hari tertentu. The choice between sewnaktuwaktu or sewaktu-waktu often depends on stylistic guidelines for a given publication or region.

See also: kapan saja; bilamana; sewaktu-waktu as a variant; Indonesian time-related adverbs.