Cara Mengungkapkan Waktu dalam Bahasa Inggris: Mengapa 12.45 Menjadi 'Twelve Forty-Five'

The English language, with its rich history and diverse influences, often presents unique challenges for learners, particularly when it comes to expressing time. While the concept of time is universal, the way we articulate it can vary significantly across cultures. One such peculiarity that often puzzles non-native speakers is the seemingly unconventional way of expressing time in English, especially when it comes to minutes past the hour. For instance, why do we say "twelve forty-five" instead of "twelve and forty-five minutes" or "twelve forty-five minutes"? This article delves into the intricacies of expressing time in English, exploring the reasons behind this seemingly peculiar convention.

The Evolution of Time Expression

The way we express time in English has evolved over centuries, influenced by various historical and cultural factors. In the early days, time was often expressed in terms of the position of the sun, with phrases like "sunrise" and "sunset" being common references. As clocks became more prevalent, the need for a more precise system of timekeeping emerged. The 12-hour clock system, which is still widely used in English-speaking countries, became the standard, dividing the day into two 12-hour cycles.

The Role of "O'Clock"

The term "o'clock" is a contraction of the Old English phrase "of the clock," indicating the hour marked by the clock. When we say "twelve o'clock," we are essentially stating that it is the hour marked by the clock, with no minutes past the hour. This concept is crucial to understanding the logic behind the way we express time in English.

The Importance of "Past" and "To"

When minutes past the hour are involved, we use the prepositions "past" and "to." "Past" indicates that the time is after the hour, while "to" indicates that the time is before the next hour. For example, "twelve fifteen" means fifteen minutes past twelve o'clock, while "twelve forty-five" means fifteen minutes to one o'clock.

The Significance of "Quarter" and "Half"

The terms "quarter" and "half" are also commonly used in expressing time. "Quarter" refers to fifteen minutes, while "half" refers to thirty minutes. Therefore, "twelve fifteen" can also be expressed as "twelve fifteen" or "twelve quarter past," and "twelve thirty" can be expressed as "twelve thirty" or "twelve half past."

The Influence of Tradition and Usage

The way we express time in English is largely a matter of tradition and usage. Over time, these conventions have become ingrained in the language, making them seem natural to native speakers. While other methods of expressing time might be more logical or efficient, the current system has become the accepted standard.

Conclusion

The way we express time in English, particularly the use of "past" and "to" for minutes past the hour, is a result of historical and cultural influences. The 12-hour clock system, the use of "o'clock," and the conventions of "quarter" and "half" all contribute to the unique way we articulate time in English. While it may seem unconventional to non-native speakers, understanding the historical context and the evolution of these conventions can help demystify this seemingly peculiar aspect of the English language.