os gwelwch yn dda a diolch
The English phrase 'please and thank you' is translated into Welsh as os gwelwch yn dda a diolch.
This phrase is a polite combination used to make a request and express gratitude in a single expression.
What does it mean word for word?
The literal translation of the phrase is 'if you see well and thanks'. It consists of os gwelwch yn dda (if you see well), the conjunction a (and) and the noun diolch (thanks).
How does it change in a sentence?
In the expression os gwelwch yn dda, the verb gweld (to see) is used in the second-person plural or polite form. The word diolch is a noun meaning 'thanks' used as a standalone expression of gratitude, and a serves as the conjunction 'and'.
Did you know?
- The word diolch comes from the Proto-Celtic word for 'prayer' or 'worship', showing that expressing gratitude was once linked to religious devotion.
- In Welsh, the phrase os gwelwch yn dda uses a plural form of the verb, even when speaking to one person, to show respect.
Examples in context
- Os gwelwch yn dda, gallech chi fy helpu?Please, could you help me?
- Diolch yn fawr am eich cymorth.Thank you very much for your help.
- Diolch am dy gymorth.Thanks for your help.
Example conversation
Dylan is asking Sian for a glass of water.
- DylanGallwch chi gael dŵr i mi, os gwelwch yn dda?Could you get me water, please?
- SianDyma'r dŵr i chi, Dylan.Here is the water for you, Dylan.
- DylanDiolch yn fawr, Sian!Thank you very much, Sian!
- SianMae'n hawdd dweud os gwelwch yn dda a diolch.It is easy to say please and thank you.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries a, diolch, os, yn, CC BY-SA 4.0.
