How to Express Quantity and Measurement in Indonesian

Understanding Basic Quantity Words in Indonesian

In Indonesian, expressing quantity often involves simple words that indicate amount or number. Some common words include banyak (many/much), sedikit (few/little), and beberapa (some). These words help describe how much or how many of something there is.

Common Quantity Words

Expressing Specific Numbers and Amounts

Numbers in Indonesian are straightforward and are used directly before the noun to indicate quantity. For example, tiga buku means "three books." Indonesian numbers from one to ten are: satu, dua, tiga, empat, lima, enam, tujuh, delapan, sembilan, sepuluh.

When expressing amounts, the number comes before the noun without any plural form changes, as Indonesian nouns do not change for plural.

Numbers 1 to 10 in Indonesian

Units of Measurement in Indonesian

Indonesian uses the metric system for measurements. Common units include meter (meter), kilogram (kilogram), and liter (liter). These units are often abbreviated similarly to English, such as m for meter and kg for kilogram.

Common Measurement Units

Phrases for Expressing Quantity and Measurement

Here are some useful phrases to express quantity and measurement in Indonesian:

• Saya punya dua apel. (I have two apples.)
• Beratnya lima kilogram. (It weighs five kilograms.)
• Ada beberapa orang di ruangan ini. (There are some people in this room.)
• Panjangnya sepuluh meter. (The length is ten meters.)
• Saya ingin sedikit gula. (I want a little sugar.)

Tips for Using Quantity and Measurement in Indonesian

Remember that Indonesian nouns do not change for plural, so the number alone indicates quantity. Also, the metric system is standard, so familiarize yourself with metric units. When in doubt, use the word banyak to indicate a large quantity and sedikit for a small amount.