Recently, I read a book Language Police: On the Role of Absent Speakers, by Eko Endarmoko. At first glance, this book is a collection of 60 of Mas Eko's writings, compiled into a crisp, light, and realistic commentary.
In Mas Eko's view, the language currently used as a medium of communication isn't particularly difficult to understand. The speakers speak naturally and aren't always under any pressure.
However, nowadays some people often or habitually use 'foreign' terms in their verbal dialogue. For example, 'I want to... shopping to the bookstore'. 'I order, black coffee two'. 'Menu best seller what's here?' And there are many similar examples.
For Mas Eko, this kind of language speaker style is called ‘'act'. Laga is the tendency of speakers who want to show off, are a little arrogant, want to look 'manly' or act expensive.
There is nothing to forbid. The speaker is not confined to 'pedantic' words and sentences. In fact, the speaker's rights and interlocutor (The other person) is fine if the communication is mutually beneficial. Conversely, they can become familiar with each other.
What Mas Eko is concerned about is that our Indonesian vocabulary isn't lacking or minimal. In fact, it's already significantly helpful for speakers in their interactions. The question is, at what level is this tendency to use 'foreign' vocabulary?
If a speaker is unaware of their speaking level, it can lead to misunderstandings. Misunderstandings are the seeds of anxiety in speaking. This context should be carefully considered. Because, act such as to bring language anxiety in a speech community.
Language anxiety refers to the feeling of anxiety or fear a person experiences when having to communicate in a particular language. This situation often arises in contexts where the individual feels that language skills require a high level of proficiency.
For example, a person may experience discomfort when speaking in public in a foreign language, when interacting with native speakers, or even when explaining ideas in a language they feel less fluent in. fluent.
Several factors can influence language proficiency, most of which stem from personal experiences and educational background. Someone with limited public speaking experience may be more susceptible to feelings of insecurity.
Additionally, individuals who frequently receive criticism for their language skills may also develop a long-term sense of trauma, which can contribute to feelings of discomfort when having to speak with such 'pretentious' speakers. ‘'act'’ earlier
Language anxiety can have unhealthy effects, both psychologically and socially, on those who experience it. Psychologically, someone experiencing communication difficulties tends to feel inferior and lack confidence in interactions.
On the other hand, there are sometimes more skeptical responses to foreign behavior. Therefore, try not to put on an act or pretend to show off. A good speaker is one who is accepted without suspicion, without second-guessing or guessing.
Sometimes personal reflection on experiences that occur before our eyes is important to understand in language, it will encourage us to be more empathetic and sensitive to differences between speakers.
This can also raise the awareness of speakers to be not only good speakers but also responsive and responsible speakers of the language they use. Individual awareness between speakers and their interlocutors should help reduce the tension that arises from language anxiety.
By realizing and overcoming ‘'act'’ language anxiety, we can build more effective bridges of communication. Greater awareness of this will help create a community of speakers where every individual feels valued and recognized.
In conclusion, Mas Eko's concerns are legitimate. Therefore, good language speakers must strive to understand and appreciate linguistic differences, and we must also develop more harmonious and dynamic communication patterns within a communal society.
Wallahua'lam bish shawab
