gesondheid
/χəˈsɔntˌɦəi̯t/
The English phrase "cheers" can be translated into Afrikaans as gesondheid or tjorts.
Meaning: toast when drinking (intj)
Ways to say it
| Afrikaans | IPA |
|---|---|
| gesondheid | /χəˈsɔntˌɦəi̯t/ |
| tjorts | /tʃɔrts/ |
Both terms are used when making a toast during a drink.
What does it mean word for word?
The word gesondheid literally means 'health'.
Did you know?
- The word gesondheid is used not just for drinking, but also as a polite way to say 'bless you' when someone sneezes.
- In South African culture, a toast with gesondheid is often accompanied by firm eye contact to show sincerity and trust.
- Gesondheid is derived from the Dutch word gezondheid, which shares a root with the English word 'sound' in the sense of being healthy.
Examples in context
- Gesondheid op die nuwe paar!Cheers to the new couple!
- Gesondheid op jou nuwe werk.Cheers to your new job.
Example conversation
Anika and Pieter are having a glass of wine.
- AnikaHier is op ons vriendskap. Gesondheid!Here is to our friendship. Cheers!
- PieterGesondheid, Anika!Cheers, Anika!
- AnikaHierdie wyn is heerlik.This wine is delicious.
- PieterEk stem saam, dit is baie lekker.I agree, it is very nice.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “cheers” translations and entries gesondheid, tjorts, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries gesondheid, CC BY-SA 4.0.
