Dari 'Become' ke 'Became': Evolusi Bentuk Kata Kerja dalam Bahasa Inggris

The English language, like any living language, is constantly evolving. This evolution is evident in the subtle shifts in grammar, vocabulary, and even the forms of words. One such fascinating example is the transformation of the verb "become" into "became." This seemingly simple change reflects a deeper linguistic process that has shaped the language over centuries. This article delves into the history of this transformation, exploring the reasons behind it and its impact on the English language.

The Roots of "Become"

The word "become" has its origins in Old English, where it was spelled "becoman." This word was formed by combining the prefix "be-" with the verb "coman," meaning "to come." The prefix "be-" often indicated a change of state or becoming something. Thus, "becoman" literally meant "to come to be" or "to become." This original form of the verb was used in both present and past tenses, with the past participle being "becomen."

The Rise of "Became"

Over time, the English language underwent significant changes, particularly during the Middle English period (1150-1500). This period saw the influence of Norman French, which led to the adoption of many French words and grammatical structures. One of the key changes was the development of a more complex system of verb conjugation, with distinct forms for different tenses.

The past tense of "become" gradually shifted from "becoman" to "became." This change was likely influenced by the French verb "devenir," which also meant "to become." The French past participle "devenu" may have also contributed to the development of the English past participle "become."

The Impact of "Became"

The emergence of "became" as the past tense of "become" had a significant impact on the English language. It simplified the verb conjugation system, making it easier for speakers to distinguish between present and past tenses. It also reflected the growing influence of French on the English language, which was shaping the grammar and vocabulary of the language.

The Legacy of "Become"

The transformation of "become" into "became" is a testament to the dynamic nature of language. It demonstrates how words evolve over time, influenced by various factors such as linguistic contact, grammatical changes, and cultural shifts. While the original form "becoman" is no longer used, its legacy lives on in the modern English word "become."

The evolution of "become" into "became" is a fascinating example of how language changes over time. This transformation reflects the influence of other languages, the development of grammatical structures, and the ongoing process of linguistic evolution. The story of "become" and "became" is a reminder that language is not static but a living entity that adapts and changes with the times.