“Sekalian” is an Indonesian word that is quite versatile and can be used in various contexts to convey the idea of “while at it,” “at the same time,” or “since you’re already doing it.” Here’s a detailed explanation of its usage and meaning:
Usage of “Sekalian”:
While Doing Something Else:
- “Sekalian” is often used when you want to do something additional while you are already doing something else.
- Example: “Saya mau ke pasar, sekalian beli sayur.” (I’m going to the market, might as well buy some vegetables.)
Combining Tasks:
- It can indicate combining multiple tasks or actions into one.
- Example: “Aku akan ke rumahmu, sekalian kita bisa ngobrol.” (I’ll come to your house, and we can chat while I’m there.)
Taking Advantage of an Opportunity:
- It can be used to take advantage of a situation or opportunity to do something else.
- Example: “Kalau kamu pergi ke toko, sekalian titip beli roti ya.” (If you’re going to the store, please buy some bread while you’re there.)
Including
- It can also mean “including” or “as well as” when referring to people or things.
- Example: “Undang teman-temanmu sekalian keluarganya.” (Invite your friends and their families as well.)
Examples in Different Contexts:
Errands:
- “Aku mau ke supermarket, sekalian beli susu.” (I’m going to the supermarket, might as well buy some milk.)
Visits:
- “Aku akan ke rumah nenek, sekalian ketemu sepupu.” (I’m going to grandma’s house, and while I’m there, I’ll meet my cousin.)
Requests:
- “Kalau kamu bikin kopi, sekalian buatin aku satu.” (If you’re making coffee, make one for me as well.)
Travel:
- “Kami akan ke Bali, sekalian mampir ke Lombok.” (We’re going to Bali, and we might as well stop by Lombok.)
Shopping:
- “Saya mau beli baju baru, sekalian cari sepatu.” (I’m going to buy new clothes, might as well look for shoes.)
Common Phrases:
- Sekalian saja. (“Might as well.”)
- Sekalian ini. (“While at it, this as well.”)
Cultural Note:
- Using “sekalian” often implies efficiency and practicality, as it suggests making the most out of a situation by combining tasks or actions.
In summary, “sekalian” is a useful word in Indonesian that helps express the idea of doing multiple things at once, making the most out of a situation, or including additional actions or people.
