Learning Malay can be an exciting journey, and understanding the nuances of verbs is crucial to mastering the language. Two essential verbs you will encounter are bermula (to start) and menyelesaikan (to finish). These verbs are fundamental in daily conversations and written communication. This article will delve into the usage, context, and examples of these verbs to help you gain a deeper understanding of how to use them effectively.

Bermula – To Start

Bermula is a verb that means “to start” or “to begin.” It is used to indicate the initiation of an action, event, or process.

Bermula
Kelas bahasa Melayu bermula pada pukul 8 pagi.

In this example, bermula is used to indicate the starting time of a Malay language class.

Usage in Different Contexts

Bermula can be used in various contexts, such as starting a journey, beginning a project, or initiating an event. It can be applied to both tangible and intangible activities.

Perjalanan – journey
Perjalanan kami bermula dari Kuala Lumpur.

Projek – project
Projek baru itu bermula minggu depan.

Majlis – event
Majlis perkahwinan mereka bermula dengan meriah.

Menyelesaikan – To Finish

Menyelesaikan is a verb that means “to finish” or “to complete.” It is used to indicate the completion of an action, task, or process.

Menyelesaikan
Dia menyelesaikan kerja rumahnya sebelum tidur.

In this example, menyelesaikan is used to show that someone has finished their homework before going to bed.

Usage in Different Contexts

Menyelesaikan can be used in various contexts, such as completing a task, finishing a project, or concluding an event. It emphasizes the completion and finality of an activity.

Tugas – task
Saya perlu menyelesaikan tugas ini hari ini.

Kerja – work
Mereka berjaya menyelesaikan kerja dengan baik.

Perbincangan – discussion
Perbincangan itu menyelesaikan banyak masalah.

Comparing Bermula and Menyelesaikan

While bermula and menyelesaikan both relate to the timeline of activities, they serve opposite functions. Bermula focuses on the initiation, whereas menyelesaikan emphasizes the completion. Understanding the difference between these verbs is essential for clear and effective communication.

Acara – event
Acara ini bermula pada jam 9 pagi dan menyelesaikan pada jam 5 petang.

In this example, bermula indicates the start time of the event, and menyelesaikan indicates the end time.

Common Phrases and Expressions

In Malay, there are several common phrases and expressions that incorporate bermula and menyelesaikan. Familiarizing yourself with these will enhance your fluency and understanding.

Bermula dari bawah – to start from the bottom
Dia bermula dari bawah sebelum berjaya dalam perniagaan.

Menyelesaikan masalah – to solve a problem
Pasukan itu berjaya menyelesaikan masalah dengan cepat.

Bermula semula – to start over
Selepas kegagalan, dia memutuskan untuk bermula semula.

Menyelesaikan perbezaan – to settle differences
Mereka duduk bersama untuk menyelesaikan perbezaan.

Practice and Application

To master the usage of bermula and menyelesaikan, it’s essential to practice them in various sentences and contexts. Try creating your own sentences using these verbs to describe your daily activities, projects, or any events you are involved in.

Latihan – practice
Latihan itu bermula pada jam 7 pagi dan menyelesaikan pada jam 8 malam.

Belajar – study
Saya bermula belajar bahasa Melayu tahun lepas dan akan menyelesaikan kursus ini bulan depan.

Menonton – watching
Kami bermula menonton filem itu pada jam 3 petang dan menyelesaikan pada jam 5 petang.

Additional Vocabulary

Here are some additional vocabulary words related to starting and finishing that can expand your understanding and usage in conversations.

Memulakan – to initiate, to start
Dia memulakan perbualan dengan senyuman.

Memulakan semula – to restart
Mesin itu perlu dimulakan semula selepas pembaikan.

Penamat – finish, end
Penamat perlumbaan itu sangat mendebarkan.

Kesudahan – conclusion, ending
Kesudahan cerita itu sangat mengejutkan.

Pengakhiran – ending, closure
Pengakhiran buku itu membuat saya berfikir.

Melengkapkan – to complete
Dia melengkapkan puzzle itu dalam masa yang singkat.

Mengakhiri – to end, to conclude
Mereka mengakhiri perbincangan dengan persetujuan.

Conclusion

Understanding and correctly using bermula and menyelesaikan is vital for effective communication in Malay. These verbs help you articulate the beginning and end of actions, events, and processes, allowing you to convey your thoughts clearly and accurately. Practice using these verbs in various contexts and familiarize yourself with related vocabulary to enhance your fluency. Keep exploring and practicing, and soon you will find yourself more comfortable and proficient in using Malay verbs in your daily conversations.