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Perfect Progressive Tenses do not exist in the Indonesian language as they do in English. Indonesian grammar is much simpler. Instead of shifting the verb to represent different tenses and aspects, Indonesian language uses different words or adds on to the root word.
For instance, to show an ongoing action (progressive aspect), Indonesians use the word “sedang” before the verb or repeat the verb, which becomes an action that is doing continuously. To signify an action that has been completed (perfect aspect), “sudah” or “telah” is placed before a verb.
Exercises for mastering this concept often include translating sentences with perfect progressive tenses from English into Indonesian. Teachers will give students sentences like “He has been reading” (Dia telah/ sudah membaca) or “They are eating” (Mereka sedang makan / Mereka makan-makan).
Also, activities where students match Indonesian phrases with corresponding tenses in English are incredibly helpful. For example, “Dia makan-makan” would be matched with “He is eating”.
Despite the initial confusion for English speakers due to the lack of tense conjugation, with continued practice, learners often find Indonesian grammar refreshingly straightforward compared to English. The focus on context rather than stringent grammar rules creates a flexible language environment.
