What does it mean word for word?
Skatjie is a diminutive of skat, which means 'treasure'. It literally translates to 'little treasure'.
Which one should you use?
While Skatjie is the default form, other variations exist. Skattie is similar to the English 'darling' and is used between couples. Liefie is a popular and widely used way to say 'sweetheart'. If you want to refer to a 'doll' or a 'cutie', you would use Poppie. For a more formal tone, use Geliefde, which means 'beloved' or 'darling'.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
Skatjie is an informal and affectionate way to address a romantic partner or a child. For a more formal way to say 'beloved' or 'darling', use Geliefde. Other informal options include Liefie, Skattie and Poppie.
Is it said differently in some regions?
Bokkie is a regional variation of sweetheart that literally refers to a small buck or deer.
How does it change in a sentence?
If you remove this suffix, you are left with Skat, which is the standard noun for 'treasure' or 'sweetheart'.
Did you know?
- The term bokkie uses the word for a small antelope to express love, a common pattern in Afrikaans where animals become endearments.
- Afrikaans uses a system of diminutives, such as adding the suffix -jie to Skat to make Skatjie. This process does not just indicate small size but is a primary linguistic tool for expressing warmth and intimacy.
- Using Geliefde in a romantic context is far more formal than using Skatjie. It is often reserved for written letters, wedding vows or solemn declarations of love.
Examples in context
- Jy is my skatjie.You are my sweetheart.
- Sy is 'n regte skatjie.She is a real sweetheart.
- Hallo, my klein skatjie.Hello, my little sweetheart.
Example conversation
A husband and wife are talking in their kitchen.
- PieterGoeiemôre, my skatjie.Good morning, my sweetheart.
- MarelizeGoeiemôre, Pieter.Good morning, Pieter.
- PieterHet jy goed geslaap?Did you sleep well?
- MarelizeJa, ek het heerlik geslaap.Yes, I slept wonderfully.
