arafwch
To slow down in Welsh is arafwch.
The phrase is used as an intransitive verb meaning to decelerate.
Meaning: (''intransitive'') to decelerate (verb)
Which one should you use?
The form arafwch is used when addressing a group of people or a single person in a formal manner. In contrast, arafia is the informal command used when speaking to one person you know well. The infinitive form arafu means to slow down.
How does it change in a sentence?
arafwch is the imperative or command form used for addressing a group or a single person formally. The informal imperative form for one person is arafia. The base infinitive is arafu.
Did you know?
- In colloquial Welsh, the phrase arafwch is sometimes used metaphorically to tell someone to 'calm down' or stop rushing through a conversation.
- Unlike English, where 'slow down' is a phrasal verb, Welsh expresses this entire concept through a single word like arafwch.
- The imperative suffix -wch in arafwch is a distinct marker of plurality or formality, a feature that has vanished from modern English commands.
Examples in context
- Arafwch, rydych chi'n teithio rhy gyflym!Slow down, you're driving too fast!
- Arafwch ychydig, mae hi'n bwrw glaw.Slow down a little, it is raining.
- Arafwch os gwelwch yn dda.Slow down please.
Example conversation
Sian and Rhys are driving in a car together.
- SianRhys, arafwch ychydig, os laising.Rhys, slow down a little, please.
- RhysYdych chi'n meddwel fy nydw i'n gyflym?Do you think I am fast?
- SianYdw, mae'n rhy gyflym ar y ffordd hon.Yes, it is too fast on this road.
- Rhysiawn, byddaf yn arafu.Alright, I will slow down.
