ek ook
/æk ʊə̯k/word by word
The English phrase 'me too' is translated into Afrikaans as ek ook.
Meaning: that applies to me as well (phrase)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase ek ook literally translates to 'I also'.
How does it change in a sentence?
While English uses the object pronoun 'me' in the phrase 'me too', Afrikaans uses the subject pronoun ek (I).
How do you pronounce it?
/æk ʊə̯k/
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often mistakenly say my ook by translating 'me' directly. Instead, use ek ook.
Did you know?
- The word ook shares an ancient ancestor with the English word 'also', both tracing back to the Proto-Germanic *auk.
- Afrikaans is a daughter language of Dutch, which is why ek ook is nearly identical to the Dutch ik ook.
- While 'me too' is a common English reaction, using ek ook in a formal Afrikaans speech requires careful placement to avoid sounding too abrupt.
Examples in context
- Ek ook.Me too.
- Ek ook, dankie.Me too, thank you.
Example conversation
Two friends are talking about their weekend plans.
- JohanEk wil graag gaan stap.I would like to go for a walk.
- MarelizeEk ook, Johan.Me too, Johan.
- JohanIs jy reg vir die park?Are you ready for the park?
- MarelizeJa, ek is reg.Yes, I am ready.
Sources
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (ek, ook) and can differ in connected speech.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries ek, ook, CC BY-SA 4.0.
