terbawa

"Terbawa" is a term originating from Indonesian culture, often used colloquially to describe a state of emotional or mental being influenced or overwhelmed by external stimuli, feelings, or circumstances. The word is derived from the Indonesian verb "bawa," meaning "to carry" or "to bring," with the prefix "ter-" indicating a passive or involuntary condition. As such, "terbawa" can translate to "being carried away" or "being influenced."

In everyday language, "terbawa" is frequently used to describe feelings of being emotionally carried away, such as being "terbawa perasaan" (carried away by feelings), or being influenced by peer pressure, events, or emotional experiences. It reflects a state where one may act impulsively or beyond their typical control due to external or internal factors.

The term also appears in cultural expressions and traditional storytelling to convey characters or individuals affected by circumstances beyond their immediate control. Psychologically, it may relate to emotional susceptibility or the tendency to be influenced by surroundings.

While "terbawa" is primarily used in informal contexts, its understanding is important in discussions of emotional regulation, social influence, and cultural communication within Indonesian society. It encapsulates the notion of losing one's composure or objectivity due to emotional or environmental pressures. Overall, "terbawa" illustrates how language captures complex human experiences related to influence and emotional state in a succinct and culturally resonant expression.