The Diverse Meanings of the Word "Flow" in Javanese Explored Through Semantic Analysis

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FORMOSA NEWS

The richness of the Javanese lexicon has been further uncovered through in-depth linguistic research identifying nine variations of the verb "to flow" (mengalir), each possessing unique meaning characteristics. This study was conducted by Ais Shelma Halida Fajria alongside Prof. Dr. Agus Subiyanto, M.A., and Catur Kepirianto from Universitas Diponegoro, gathering data from native speakers in Palang District, Tuban Regency. The research is significant in demonstrating that words which superficially share the same meaning actually harbor distinct semantic component structures, intensity levels, and intentionality factors.

This study is motivated by the position of Javanese as one of the largest regional languages in Indonesia, featuring diverse dialects and cultural systems deeply embedded within its speech community. Although the Great Dictionary of the Indonesian Language (KBBI) generally defines "flowing" as the forward movement of liquids or air, practical usage among native Javanese speakers employs a wide array of specific lexicons to describe moving liquids. Without rigorous analysis, the subtle semantic differences among these terms are often overlooked and treated as synonymous.

To objectively analyze these meanings, the research team applied a qualitative approach utilizing direct interviews and observations of spoken utterances within the community. Data analysis was conducted using the Natural Semantic Metalanguage (NSM) theory pioneered by Anna Wierzbicka and Cliff Goddard. Through the technique of explication, complex word meanings were broken down into universal and simple semantic primes, enabling detailed mapping of their semantic structures without getting bogged down by complicated technical biases.

The study successfully mapped nine variations of the verb "to flow" in Javanese, classified by flow intensity, intentionality, and duration:

1. Nyembur: A strong flow, occurring unintentionally in a short duration (e.g., squirting iced tea from the mouth).
2. Gerojok: A strong flow, performed intentionally in a short duration.
3. Mili: A moderate flow, intentional, with a relatively long duration.
4. Muncrat: A sudden strong flow, unintentional, in a short duration.
5. Mancur: A stable, controllable flow, intentional, with a long duration.
6. Netes: A very small or weak flow, intentional, of short duration.
7. Ngucur: A slightly heavy flow, intentional, with an estimated duration.
8. Ngerembes: A very small and slow flow, unintentional, taking a long time for signs to become visible.
9. Nyemprot: A sudden, slightly startling flow, intentional, of short duration.

These findings provide broad implications for the preservation of regional languages and the development of linguistic science, particularly within semantics in Indonesia. With the distinct semantic components of each lexicon proven, language education now possesses an empirical reference showing that regional vocabulary instruction should not be treated uniformly. This mapping also strengthens the documentation of Nusantara oral culture, ensuring that local wisdom in language remains preserved and easily understood by future generations as well as artificial intelligence-based language processing systems.

Brief Author Profiles:

• Ais Shelma Halida Fajria – Researcher and academic in linguistics from Universitas Diponegoro.
• Prof. Dr. Agus Subiyanto, M.A. – Professor and senior researcher at the Department of Linguistics, Universitas Diponegoro, specializing in regional language semantics and syntax.
• Catur Kepirianto – Researcher and faculty member in linguistics from Universitas Diponegoro.

Research Source:

• Article Title: Makna Verba "Mengalir" dalam Bahasa Jawa Pendekatan Metabahasa Semantik Alami
• Journal Name: Journal of Language Development and Linguistics (JLDL)
• Publication Year: 2026
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.55927/jldl.v5i2.17286