slaap lekker
/slaːp ˈlɛ.kər/word by word
In Dutch, the phrase for sweet dreams is slaap lekker.
slaap lekker is the standard way to wish someone sweet dreams or sleep well when they are going to bed. While the English phrase 'sweet dreams' focuses on the content of the dreams, the Dutch expression focuses on the quality of the sleep itself.
Meaning: sweet dreams (phrase)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase slaap lekker literally translates to 'sleep tasty' or 'sleep nicely'.
Which one should you use?
Dutch speakers use slaap lekker as the standard way to say both 'sweet dreams' and 'sleep well' during a goodnight greeting.
How do you pronounce it?
/slaːp ˈlɛ.kər/. The word has 3 syllables, with the stress on the 2nd syllable.
Did you know?
- The adjective lekker in slaap lekker originally comes from the verb lekken, which means 'to lick'.
- In Afrikaans, a daughter language of Dutch, the word lekker is used even more broadly as a general slang term for 'great', 'cool' or 'fun'.
- The word lekker is one of the most versatile adjectives in Dutch, used for everything from delicious food to a comfortable chair or a pleasant day.
Examples in context
- Slaap lekker!Sweet dreams!This example shows how to use slaap lekker as a standalone greeting.Tatoeba #4707752 by doemaar14, translation #30054 by CK
- Slaap lekker, Timmy.Sweet dreams, Timmy.This example demonstrates using slaap lekker when addressing someone by name.Tatoeba #377989 by Dorenda, translation #21293 by CN
- Slaap lekker, lieverd. Tot morgen!Sleep well, sweetheart. See you tomorrow!
Example conversation
Lisa and Lucas are saying goodnight in their bedroom.
- LisaHet is tijd om te gaan slapen.It is time to go to sleep.
- LucasJa, ik ben ook moe.Yes, I am tired too.
- LisaSlaap lekker, Lucas.Sweet dreams, Lucas.
- LucasDank je, slaap lekker, Lisa.Thank you, sweet dreams, Lisa.
Sources
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (slaap, lekker) and can differ in connected speech.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries lekker, slaap, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
