becak

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "becak" is not correct or usable in written English as it is a term from Indonesian referring to a type of pedicab.
It can be used in contexts discussing transportation in Indonesia or when referring to the specific vehicle in a cultural context. Example: "During my trip to Indonesia, I enjoyed riding a becak through the bustling streets of Yogyakarta."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

The becak, or tricycle taxi, is used only for local neighbourhood transportation, and regular taxis now operate throughout the metropolitan area.

Encyclopedia Britannica

When he worked for Ann and Lolo, his duties included gardening; taking care of a pet turtle, dog, rabbit and bird; and taking Barry to school by bi­cycle or becak.

The New York Times - Magazine

"I remember creating quite a sensation just being pedaled down the street in a becak, wearing a short skirt," Brugger said.

The New York Times - Magazine

From Banda Aceh, take a becak (cycle rickshaw) to the Pulau Weh ferry, then a taxi to Iboih Beach Scubadoo Shane's Ten-Buck Tour, Yamba, New South Wales Shane Henwood and his family run the YHA hostel in Yamba, a little hidden gem of a fishing town.

The Guardian - Travel

His wife relinquished 21 grams of gold -- most of her dowry -- to help Romi buy a used becak, a motorbike with a sidecar that is used as a taxi.

The New York Times

The becak is a traditional mode of transport in an Eden that is already gone.

The New York Times - Arts

The original piece, in a dimly lighted space, consisted of a pink swing fashioned from a pedal-driven rickshaw, known locally as a becak, surrounded by large photo-montage panels of almost naked men and women frolicking in an idealized Garden of Eden.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Residents traveled mostly on foot or by bicycle or bicycle-propelled rickshaws called becaks.

The New York Times - Magazine

"They're called becaks," I say, surprised that the word had come back to me after all this time.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about Indonesia or Southeast Asia, use "becak" to provide cultural context and specificity. Otherwise, opt for more widely understood terms like "cycle rickshaw" or "pedicab".

Common error

Avoid using "becak" when referring to similar vehicles outside of Indonesia, as it is a culturally specific term. Use more general terms like "rickshaw" or "pedicab" to ensure clarity for a broader audience.

Linguistic Context

The word "becak" functions as a noun, specifically denoting a type of three-wheeled vehicle used for local transportation, primarily in Indonesia. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's best used when the context relates to Indonesian culture or transportation.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Encyclopedias

11%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "becak" refers to a specific type of three-wheeled vehicle primarily found in Indonesia. While it is acceptable to use this term when the context is related to Indonesian culture or transportation, it is generally better to use more widely understood terms like "cycle rickshaw" or "pedicab" for broader audiences. Ludwig AI indicates it is grammatically incorrect in general written English, but correct when used in the right cultural context. Its usage is most frequent in news and media sources when describing travel or cultural aspects. Therefore, consider your audience and the specific context when deciding whether to use "becak" or a more general term.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cycle rickshaw

A more descriptive and widely understood term for the vehicle.

pedicab

A common term for a similar vehicle, though not specific to Indonesian culture.

rickshaw

A general term for a two-wheeled passenger cart, broader than "becak".

trishaw

Another term for a three-wheeled rickshaw.

auto rickshaw

A motorized version of a rickshaw, providing motorized transportation.

tuk-tuk

A specific type of auto rickshaw common in Southeast Asia.

three-wheeled taxi

Describes the vehicle by its wheel configuration and function.

bicycle taxi

Focuses on the human-powered aspect of the vehicle.

local transportation

Refers to its function within the community rather than the specific vehicle.

urban transport

A broader term encompassing various modes of city travel.

FAQs

What is a "becak"?

A "becak" is a type of cycle rickshaw or pedicab commonly found in Indonesia and other parts of Southeast Asia. It is a three-wheeled vehicle used for local transportation.

When is it appropriate to use the term "becak" in writing?

Use "becak" when specifically discussing transportation in Indonesia or when referring to the vehicle in a cultural context. Otherwise, use more general terms like "cycle rickshaw" or "pedicab".

What are some alternative terms for "becak"?

Alternatives include "cycle rickshaw", "pedicab", "rickshaw", or "trishaw", depending on the specific type of vehicle and the region you are discussing.

Is "becak" a commonly understood term in English?

While "becak" is recognized in some contexts, it is not a universally understood term in English. Using more common terms like "cycle rickshaw" or "pedicab" can improve clarity for a wider audience.