boet
The English phrase "bro" is translated into Afrikaans as boet.
The term is used to refer to a male comrade, a friend or someone who shares one’s ideals.
Meaning: male comrade or friend, one who shares one’s ideals (noun)
Which one should you use?
While boet is used for a male friend or comrade, the word suster is used when referring to a female sibling or friend. The term bru is another way to say "bro".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
boet is a shortened, colloquial form of the formal word broer. For a more affectionate or casual way to say "bro" or "buddy", you can use the diminutive form boetie. Additionally, bru is considered an informal way to say "bro".
Did you know?
- In Afrikaans slang, the word bru is often used with almost no regard for the actual gender of the person, similar to how 'dude' is used in English.
- In South African English, the word bru has been adopted as a loanword and is used by people who do not speak Afrikaans.
- In some Cape dialects, the term bru can be used as a universal filler word in a sentence, similar to how an English speaker might use 'man' or 'dude' to pace a story.
Examples in context
- Hoe gaan dit, bru?How are you, bro?
- Hey, boet, wat gaan aan?Hey, bro, what's up?
- Hy is my boet.He is my bro.
- Dankie, boet.Thanks, bro.
- Ek gaan met my boet kuier.I am going to hang out with my bro.
Example conversation
Andries and Marelize are talking about his friend at a cafe.
- AndriesEk wag vir my boet.I am waiting for my bro.
- MarelizeIs dit die man wat jy gesien het?Is that the man you saw?
- AndriesJa, hy is 'n goeie boet.Yes, he is a good bro.
- MarelizeDit is lekker om te hoor.That is good to hear.
