How to Say “Big” in Afrikaans

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groot
/χrʊət/
The English word "big" is translated into Afrikaans as groot.
The word groot is used to describe something of a great size. Similar to English, it can also be used metaphorically to describe something that is "great" or "important".
Meaning: of a great size (adj)

Which one should you use?

While groot means big or large in size, it is also used metaphorically to mean 'great' or 'important', much like in English.

How does it change in a sentence?

The noun form of the adjective 'groot' is grootte, meaning 'size'.

How do you pronounce it?

/χrʊət/

Did you know?

  • In Afrikaans, groot is used in the term grootouers to mean 'grandparents', literally translating to 'big parents'.
  • The Afrikaans word groot can be used in the phrase groot word, which does not mean to become physically large but specifically to 'grow up' or mature.
  • In South Africa, groot is frequently used in the colloquial term grootman, a respectful way to address an older man or a leader in a community.

Examples in context

  • Dit is 'n groot werk.
    It's a big job.
    This example shows how to use groot to describe a job.
    Tatoeba #6456493 by Dewald, translation #6440623 by CK
  • Tom het 'n groot dag môre.
    Tom has a big day tomorrow.
    This example uses groot to describe a day.
    Tatoeba #6456224 by Dewald, translation #4665934 by CK
  • Ek wou nie 'n groot saak hiervan maak nie.
    I didn't want to make a big deal out of it.
    This example uses groot in the context of making a deal.
    Tatoeba #2783901 by Diablofire, translation #2589005 by CK
  • Die groot stad
    The big city
  • Dit is 'n lekker groot burger
    This is a nice big burger
  • 10 more sentences on Tatoeba

Example conversation

Anika and Andries are standing in front of a new house.

  1. Anika

    Hierdie is 'n groot huis.
    This is a big house.
  2. Andries

    Ja, dit is baie groot.
    Yes, it is very big.
  3. Anika

    Ek hou van die groot tuin.
    I like the big garden.
  4. Andries

    Anika, dit is perfek vir ons.
    Anika, it is perfect for us.

Sources

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Kelly Debra
Kelly DebraHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.
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