takjub

Takjub is a term used in Indonesian and Malay to denote a feeling of astonishment, awe, or wonder in response to something remarkable, beautiful, or difficult to believe. It can refer to a mood, a state of mind, or the reaction someone has when confronted with an impressive phenomenon, work of art, or natural wonder. In everyday language it often expresses admiration or surprise, as in recognizing something extraordinary.

Etymology and usage notes: Takjub is believed to be borrowed from Arabic ta'ajjub (تعجّب), meaning astonishment or marvel, and was incorporated into Malay and Indonesian through historical religious and cultural contact. The word functions as a noun (rasa takjub), an adjective (ia takjub), or as part of a predicate phrase such as menimbulkan takjub (to evoke awe).

Contexts and collocations: Takjub is commonly used in religious contexts to describe awe toward God or divine creation, for example takjub kepada Tuhan. It also appears in secular contexts when praising nature, human achievement, or artistry, as in takjub pada keindahan alam or takjub atas prestasi manusia. Related terms include kagum (admiration), heran (wonder), and terpesona (bewitched or captivated).

Related notes: In Indonesian and Malay, takjub emphasizes a deep, often respectful, sense of awe rather than mere surprise. It contrasts with milder terms like terkejut (startled) or biasa-biasa saja (unimpressed). The word is widely understood in both languages and appears in literature, media, and religious discourse.