Menulis Waktu dalam Bahasa Inggris: Mengapa 12.45 Menjadi 'Twelve Forty-Five' dan Bukan 'Twelve Point Forty-Five'

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The English language, with its rich history and diverse influences, often presents unique challenges for learners, especially when it comes to expressing time. While many languages use a straightforward system of hours and minutes, English employs a more nuanced approach, particularly when dealing with times that fall within the latter half of an hour. This article delves into the intricacies of expressing time in English, focusing on why 12.45 is pronounced "Twelve Forty-Five" rather than "Twelve Point Forty-Five," shedding light on the underlying logic and historical context.

The Significance of "Past" and "To"

The English system of expressing time relies heavily on the concepts of "past" and "to," which denote the position of the minutes within the hour. When the minutes are less than 30, we use "past" to indicate the time elapsed since the beginning of the hour. For instance, 12.15 is expressed as "Twelve Fifteen past," signifying that 15 minutes have passed since 12 o'clock. Conversely, when the minutes exceed 30, we use "to" to indicate the time remaining until the next hour. Therefore, 12.45 is expressed as "Twelve Forty-Five to One," signifying that 15 minutes remain before 1 o'clock.

The Role of Tradition and Usage

The use of "past" and "to" in expressing time is deeply rooted in English tradition and usage. This system has evolved over centuries, reflecting the way people naturally perceived and communicated time. The concept of "past" aligns with the progression of time, while "to" signifies the anticipation of the next hour. This intuitive approach has become ingrained in the language, making it a familiar and widely accepted convention.

The Influence of Clock Faces

The traditional clock face, with its 12-hour cycle and distinct markings for each quarter hour, further reinforces the use of "past" and "to." The clock face visually represents the passage of time, with the minutes moving in a circular pattern. This visual representation aligns with the linguistic convention of using "past" and "to," making it easier for people to understand and communicate time.

The Importance of Clarity and Precision

While "Twelve Point Forty-Five" might seem like a more logical and straightforward way to express 12.45, it lacks the clarity and precision of "Twelve Forty-Five to One." The use of "past" and "to" provides a more nuanced understanding of the time, indicating not only the minutes but also the position within the hour. This distinction is crucial for avoiding ambiguity and ensuring accurate communication.

Conclusion

The English system of expressing time, with its use of "past" and "to," is a testament to the language's rich history and evolving conventions. While "Twelve Point Forty-Five" might appear more logical, the traditional approach of "Twelve Forty-Five to One" offers greater clarity, precision, and a deeper understanding of the time. This system, rooted in tradition and usage, continues to be a vital part of the English language, reflecting the nuanced way we perceive and communicate time.