aangename kennis
The English phrase "nice to meet you" can be translated into Afrikaans as aangename kennis.
This expression is a polite way to acknowledge meeting someone for the first time.
Which one should you use?
Lekker om jou te ontmoet and Dis lekker om jou te ontmoet are informal ways to say "nice to meet you" or "it's nice to meet you". Additionally, Lekker om jou te leer ken translates to "Great to get to know you".
Did you know?
- While aangename kennis is polite, the word lekker used in informal greetings is one of the most versatile words in Afrikaans, describing everything from tasty food and good weather to a great feeling.
- Afrikaans uses the word kennis for 'acquaintance', which shares a linguistic root with the English word 'cognizant' through the concept of knowing.
- In South African culture, the verbal greeting is only half the introduction. To truly convey politeness, one must pair the phrase with a firm handshake and direct eye contact.
Example conversation
Marelize and Andries meet for the first time at a party.
- MarelizeHallo, ek is Marelize.Hello, I am Marelize.
- AndriesHallo Marelize, ek is Andries. Aangename kennis.Hello Marelize, I am Andries. Nice to meet you.
- MarelizeInsgelyks, Andries.Likewise, Andries.
- AndriesWaarvandaan kom jy?Where are you from?
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry aangename kennis, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
