Goeienag
The English phrase "good night" is translated into Afrikaans as Goeienag.
Goeienag is used specifically as a farewell when leaving someone or going to sleep, rather than as a greeting upon arrival.
Meaning: a farewell (phrase)
What does it mean word for word?
Goeienag is a compound of goeie (good) and nag (night).
Which one should you use?
While Goeienag is a farewell used at night, Goeiemôre is a greeting used in the morning.
Did you know?
- While Goeienag is the standard farewell, some Afrikaans speakers use the phrase Slaap lekker, which means 'sleep tasty'. This uses the word for taste to describe a satisfying or deep sleep.
- In Afrikaans, the word nag is used in the expression nagtemares, which refers to nightmares. It literally translates to 'night mares', suggesting that nightmares are like horses galloping over a sleeper.
- If you are speaking to a child, you might replace Goeienag with the more affectionate Slaap soet, which means 'sleep sweetly'.
Examples in context
- Goeienag, almal.Good night, everyone.
- Ek gaan nou slaap. Goeienag!I am going to sleep now. Good night!
Example conversation
Liezel and Pieter are saying goodbye at the end of a social gathering.
- LiezelDit was 'n lekker aand, Pieter.It was a lovely evening, Pieter.
- PieterJa, dankie. Goeienag, Liezel.Yes, thank you. Good night, Liezel.
- LiezelSlaap lekker!Sleep well!
- PieterJy ook!You too!
