Balinese Youth’s Understanding of Traditional Balinese Food Lexicons: An Eco-Linguistic and Traditional Literature Perspective
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: This study aims to identify lexicons related to traditional Balinese food and cooking utensils. The method used is a mixed method with an exploratory sequential design. Qualitative data were collected through interviews with 18 traditional leaders in eight regencies in Bali. Quantitative data were collected through tests administered to 320 elementary school students (160 from urban and 160 from rural areas) to assess their understanding of the lexicon. Qualitative data were analyzed using an interactive analysis model, while quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and an independent t-test. The qualitative data analysis revealed 126 lexicons related to traditional Balinese food. The lexicon was dominated by nouns, followed by verbs and adjectives. Quantitative data analysis revealed a significant difference in understanding between students in rural and urban areas, indicating that residence location influences understanding. Although the difference in understanding levels was significant, their understanding was still considered low overall. These findings indicate that the lexicon of traditional Balinese food serves not only as a linguistic element but also as a representation of local wisdom passed down through traditional literature, such as folktales, oral traditions, and cultural practices. The low level of understanding of the lexicons among the younger generation indicates a potential disruption in the transmission of cultural values contained in traditional Balinese literature. The younger generation of Balinese does not fully understand the lexicon. Therefore, efforts are needed to preserve this lexicon as part of the preservation of the Balinese language and culture.
Authors: Ni Putu Parmini, Rahmat Gaho
Institutions: IKIP Saraswati, Warmadewa University
Language: English
Topic: Language and Culture
Subfield: Linguistics and Language
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
SDG: Quality education
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7204992936