Sundanese, a Malayo-Polynesian language spoken primarily in the western part of the island of Java, Indonesia, utilizes conjunctions to connect words, phrases, or clauses, enabling the construction of coherent and complex sentences. Understanding these conjunctions is essential for mastering Sundanese and enhancing communication skills. This lesson explores the types of conjunctions in Sundanese, their usage, and the associated grammar rules.

Types of Conjunctions in Sundanese

Coordinating Conjunctions (Sambung Kalimah)

These conjunctions join elements of equal grammatical importance.

• Key Conjunctions:

  • ‘jeung’ (and)
  • ‘atawa’ (or)
  • ‘tapi’ (but)
  • ‘jadi’ (so)

• Example Usage:

  • “Abdi maca jeung nulis.” (I read and write.)
  • “Badé kopi atawa téh?” (Do you want coffee or tea?)
  • “Mahal tapi kualitasna alus.” (It is expensive but of good quality.)

Subordinating Conjunctions (Sambung Kalimah Anu Henteu Sarua)

Subordinating conjunctions connect a main clause with a subordinate clause.

• Key Conjunctions:

  • ‘sabab’ (because)
  • ‘upami’ (if)
  • ‘sanajan’ (although)
  • ‘iraha’ (when)

• Example Usage:

  • “Abdi bagja sabab ningali anjeun.” (I am happy because I saw you.)
  • “Upami hujan, abdi bakal cicing di imah.” (If it rains, I will stay at home.)
  • “Sanajan sesah, abdi badé nyobian.” (Although it is difficult, I will try.)

Grammar Rules for Using Conjunctions

Word Order

• In Sundanese: The basic sentence structure often follows a Subject-Verb-Object (SVO) order, similar to Indonesian.
• In Subordinate Clauses: The structure can vary, but the verb often comes at the end of the clause.
  • “Abdi bakal nyaritakeun upami abdi ningal anjeunna.” (I will tell you if I see him.)

Comma Usage

• Coordinating Conjunctions: Generally, no comma is used unless linking independent clauses or for clarity.
• Subordinating Conjunctions: A comma often separates the subordinate clause, especially in complex sentences.
  • “Abdi capé, sabab damel sapoé jeput.” (I am tired because I worked all day.)

Negative Sentences

• Negation: ‘teu’ is used for negation and is typically placed before the verb.
  • “Upami teu hujan, abdi badé ka luar.” (If it does not rain, I will go out.)

Consistency in Tense and Mood

• Ensure that tenses and moods in the main and subordinate clauses align appropriately, unless indicating a shift in time or context.

Practice Exercises

1. Conjunction Identification: Identify and categorize conjunctions in Sundanese texts.
2. Sentence Formation: Create sentences using various types of conjunctions.
3. Translation Exercise: Translate sentences from English to Sundanese, focusing on correct conjunction usage and word order.

Additional Resources

• Sundanese Language Courses: Online or in-person courses for structured learning.
• Language Learning Apps: Platforms offering Sundanese lessons.
• Sundanese Grammar Books: For more detailed explanations and examples.

Conclusion

Understanding conjunctions in Sundanese is essential for creating complex sentence structures and enhancing communication skills. Mastery of conjunction types and their associated grammar rules will significantly improve language proficiency. Regular practice in reading, writing, and conversation is key to effectively learning and using Sundanese conjunctions.