INKONSISTENSI PEMBAKUAN GUGUS KONSONAN <NK> BAHASA INDONESIA PADA KATA SERAPAN INGGRIS, ARAB, DAN SANSKERTA

Abstract

This study examines the variation in the standardization of the Indonesian spelling of consonant cluster <nk> in loanwords originating from English, Arabic, and Sanskrit. Using a descriptive–comparative qualitative approach, the research analyzes eight standardized loanwords listed in the Indonesian dictionary (KBBI) to identify patterns of orthographic and phonological adaptation. The findings reveal two contrasting patterns: (1) loanwords from English—such as bank, bankir, tank, and punk—generally retain their original <nk> cluster without modification, and (2) loanwords from Arabic and Sanskrit—such as ingkar, mungkar, angka, and pangku—undergo a phonological adjustment in which <nk> shifts to <ngk>. These differences are shaped by various factors, including the historical route of language contact, period of borrowing, mode of transmission (oral vs. written), and compatibility with Indonesian phonological patterns. English loanwords entered Indonesian primarily through modern written media, encouraging preservation of their original form, while Arabic and Sanskrit loanwords were absorbed earlier through oral channels, prompting adaptation to local phonotactics. The study concludes that the standardization of loanwords in Indonesian is inherently adaptive, influenced by sociohistorical context and phonological assimilation, thus reflecting the dynamic development of the Indonesian language.