regtig
In Afrikaans, the English phrase 'really' is translated as regtig.
The word regtig is used to mean 'really' or 'actually'. It can function as an intensifier to add emphasis to an adjective (such as 'really good') or to confirm the truth of a statement, similar to saying 'actually' or 'truly'.
Meaning: actually (adv)
What does it mean word for word?
The word regtig is derived from reg, meaning 'right' or 'correct' and the suffix -tig, which turns it into an adjective or adverb. It literally translates to 'rightly' or 'truly'.
Which one should you use?
regtig can be used both as an intensifier, such as 'really good' and to mean 'actually' when confirming the truth of a statement.
Did you know?
- Afrikaans uses regtig to intensify adjectives, but for 'really' in the sense of 'very', speakers often use vreeslik, which literally means 'terribly'.
- In certain South African contexts, a speaker can use regtig sarcastically to mean 'yeah, right' simply by shifting to a flat or descending pitch.
- While regtig is used for emphasis, Afrikaans speakers often use the word eintlik to mean 'actually' when correcting a misconception or introducing a new fact.
Examples in context
- Jy is regtig wonderlik.You're really wonderful.This sentence shows how to use regtig to emphasize an adjective.Tatoeba #5997509 by CJuser01, translation #434009 by CK
- Hierdie sangza is regtig goed!This sangza is really good!This sentence demonstrates using regtig to emphasize the quality of something.Tatoeba #2779380 by Diablofire, translation #819279 by FeuDRenais2
- Ek wil regtig nie hier woon nie.I really don't want to live here.This sentence illustrates using regtig to express a personal desire or feeling.Tatoeba #13368842 by Pietpetoors, translation #2015196 by CK
- Ek is werklik dankbaar vir jou hulp.I am really grateful for your help.
- Hy is regtig 'n aardige persoon.He is truly a nice person.
- Het jy regtig baie pret gehad?Did you really have a lot of fun?
- Die kos is werklik lekker.The food is really delicious.
- Ek is werklik lief vir hierdie land.I really love this country.
- Dit is werklik 'n wonderlike geleentheid.It is truly a wonderful opportunity.
- Die kosbydrae is mal lekker.The food contribution is really tasty.
- 13 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Stefan and Anika are talking about a movie they just watched.
- StefanHet jy die fliek geniet?Did you enjoy the movie?
- AnikaJa, dit was regtig interessant.Yes, it was actually interesting.
- StefanEk het gedink dit is te lank.I thought it was too long.
- AnikaRegtig? Ek het nie eers die tyd gevoel nie.Really? I didn't even feel the time.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
