oulik
The English word "cute" translates to oulik in Afrikaans.
oulik is an adjective used to describe someone or something that is attractive or pleasing in a youthful, dainty, quaint or fun-spirited way. In informal settings, the word lekker can also be used to mean "nice", "sweet" or "cute".
Meaning: attractive or pleasing in a youthful, dainty, quaint or fun-spirited way (adj)
How does it change in a sentence?
To intensify the adjective, place the word baie before oulik to say "very cute". If you wish to express the superlative "cutest", add the suffix -ste to the base form to create oulikste.
Did you know?
- The suffix -tjie can be added to nouns to create a diminutive, which is a common way to express that something is 'cute' or 'small' in Afrikaans culture.
- Calling a grown man oulik can be risky, as it may be interpreted as a slight against his masculinity.
- While oulik is the standard for 'cute', calling a person lekker might sound more like you are calling them 'tasty' or 'pleasant' rather than 'adorable'.
Examples in context
- Tom het my vertel hy dink Mary is oulik.Tom told me that he thought Mary was cute.This sentence shows how to use oulik to describe a person's opinion.Tatoeba #13585297 by Pietpetoors, translation #6355498 by CK
- Jy is baie oulik.You're very cute.This sentence demonstrates using oulik as a direct compliment.Tatoeba #4310625 by Incursio, translation #2648581 by CK
- Sami gaan uit met 'n oulike 16-jarige meisie.Sami is dating a cute sixteen year old girl.This sentence shows the use of the adjective oulik when describing a person's age and characteristics.Tatoeba #7987728 by SadeceTurkce, translation #7987657 by OsoHombre
- Die baba is lieflik.The baby is cute.
- Die hond is snoesig.The dog is cute.
- Daardie hondjie is regtig dierbaar.That puppy is really cute.
- Jou nuwe trui lyk regtig skattig op jou.Your new sweater looks really cute on you.
Example conversation
Johan and Liezel are looking at photos on a phone.
- LiezelJohan, kyk na hierdie foto van die hondjie.Johan, look at this photo of the puppy.
- JohanJa, hy is werklik oulik.Yes, he is really cute.
- LiezelHy lyk so klein en oulik.He looks so small and cute.
- JohanLiezel, ek wil hom graag hê.Liezel, I would really love to have him.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
