Çok tatlı
/t͡ʃok tatlɯ/from spelling rules
The English phrase "so cute" is translated into Turkish as Çok tatlı.
While tatlı literally means "sweet", it is the standard way in Turkish to express that someone or something is "cute".
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase Çok tatlı is composed of çok (very/much) and tatlı (sweet).
How does it change in a sentence?
To say "they are so cute", you can add the plural suffix -lar to the adjective to form Çok tatlılar, although in casual speech the subject is often implied by context.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation is /tʃok tatlɯ/. The /tʃ/ sound is like the [ch] in "change", the /k/ sound is like the [c] in "core" and the /ɯ/ sound is somewhat like the [o] in "ribbon".
Did you know?
- The word tatlı is typologically similar to the Mongolian word amttaj, as both combine a root for 'taste' with a suffix meaning 'possessing'.
- While çok tatlı is standard, Turkish speakers often use the word şirin to describe a specific kind of 'cute' that is more about being dainty or endearing.
- Because tatlı means 'sweet', calling someone tatlı can occasionally be used as a flirtatious compliment rather than just a comment on their appearance.
Examples in context
- O kadar küçük bir bebek, çok tatlı!Such a small baby, so cute!
- Minik tavşanlar ne kadar şeker!The little bunnies are so cute!
- Bu kedi çok tatlı.This cat is so cute.
- Senin bebeğin çok tatlı.Your baby is so cute.
- O çok tatlı bir çocuk.He is such a cute boy.
Example conversation
Selin and Emre are looking at a puppy in a pet shop.
- SelinŞu yavru köpek çok tatlı!That puppy is so cute!
- EmreEvet, gerçekten çok tatlı görünüyor.Yes, he looks really cute.
- SelinOnu hemen almalıyız.We should buy him right away.
- EmreHaklısın, çok sevimli.You are right, he is very lovely.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Turkish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries tatlı, çok, CC BY-SA 4.0.
