Significado
Someone who harms what they should protect
Contexto cultural
The proverb reflects Indonesia's history as an agricultural nation where fences were vital for survival. Betrayal in this context wasn't just personal; it threatened the food supply of the whole family. Indonesian media uses this phrase almost daily to describe corruption. It is a socially acceptable way to express deep anger at officials without using profanity. Indonesian netizens often use this to comment on celebrity scandals, especially cases of 'pelakor' (husband stealers) involving close friends. This proverb is a staple in 'Pantun' (four-line poems). It is used to teach children about the importance of 'Amanah' (trustworthiness).
Use it for emphasis
If you want to sound more like a native speaker when discussing a scandal, use this phrase instead of just saying 'dia jahat' (he is bad).
It's a strong accusation
Be careful using this with friends unless the betrayal is very serious. It's a heavy phrase.
Significado
Someone who harms what they should protect
Use it for emphasis
If you want to sound more like a native speaker when discussing a scandal, use this phrase instead of just saying 'dia jahat' (he is bad).
It's a strong accusation
Be careful using this with friends unless the betrayal is very serious. It's a heavy phrase.
The 'Harapkan' prefix
Adding 'Harapkan pagar...' at the beginning makes you sound very sophisticated and literary.
Teste-se
Complete the proverb with the correct word.
Harapkan pagar, pagar makan _______.
The standard form of the proverb is 'Pagar makan tanaman'.
Which situation best describes 'Pagar makan tanaman'?
Choose the best match:
The bank manager is the 'fence' (protector) who 'eats' (steals) the 'plants' (money).
Fill in the missing line in the dialogue.
A: 'Aku dengar pengacara itu membocorkan rahasia kliennya.' B: 'Wah, itu sih namanya ________.'
A lawyer leaking secrets is a classic example of a protector betraying their duty.
Which of these is a common variation of the phrase?
Select the correct variation:
This is the full, traditional version of the proverb.
🎉 Pontuação: /4
Recursos visuais
Banco de exercicios
4 exerciciosHarapkan pagar, pagar makan _______.
The standard form of the proverb is 'Pagar makan tanaman'.
Choose the best match:
The bank manager is the 'fence' (protector) who 'eats' (steals) the 'plants' (money).
A: 'Aku dengar pengacara itu membocorkan rahasia kliennya.' B: 'Wah, itu sih namanya ________.'
A lawyer leaking secrets is a classic example of a protector betraying their duty.
Select the correct variation:
This is the full, traditional version of the proverb.
🎉 Pontuação: /4
Perguntas frequentes
5 perguntasYes, especially on social media when commenting on drama or political news. It's a timeless classic.
Not really. It's almost always used for people or institutions that have a moral responsibility.
Proverbs often use base forms of verbs to keep a poetic rhythm. 'Memakan' sounds too much like a textbook.
Similar, but 'backstabbing' is more general. 'Pagar makan tanaman' specifically implies the person was supposed to be your protector.
Only if you are prepared for a major confrontation. It's a very direct insult to their integrity.
Frases relacionadas
Musuh dalam selimut
similarAn enemy in the blanket.
Menggunting dalam lipatan
similarCutting inside the fold.
Air susu dibalas air tuba
contrastMilk repaid with poison.
Serigala berbulu domba
similarA wolf in sheep's clothing.
