geen probleem
geen probleem is the Afrikaans way to say no problem.
The phrase is used to indicate that no apology is necessary. In spoken Afrikaans, it is very common to add a double negative particle nie at the end of the sentence for emphasis, resulting in geen probleem nie.
Meaning: no apology is necessary (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
This phrase is a literal translation of the English phrase. geen means no or none and probleem means problem.
How does it change in a sentence?
If you want to use the plural form 'no problems', the noun changes to probleme.
Did you know?
- If you want to sound more casual than using 'geen probleem', you might simply say 'dis reg', which literally translates to 'it is right'.
- The double negative in geen probleem nie is a mandatory grammatical structure in most Afrikaans sentences. While English speakers see a double negative as a mistake, Afrikaans requires it for the sentence to be logically complete.
- The word probleem shares a root with the English word 'problem' because both trace back to the Ancient Greek word πρόβλημα. This Greek term originally referred to something 'thrown forward' or a project.
Examples in context
- Dit is geen probleem nie.It is no problem.
Example conversation
Nicola apologizes to Johan for being a few minutes late.
- NicolaJammer dat ek laat is, Johan.Sorry that I am late, Johan.
- JohanGeen probleem, Nicola. Ek het nou net gekom.No problem, Nicola. I just arrived now.
- NicolaDankie dat jy so geduldig is.Thank you for being so patient.
- JohanDis reg so.That is fine.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries geen, probleem, CC BY-SA 4.0.
