Schatje
The Dutch word for sweetheart is Schatje.
Schatje is a very common term of endearment used between romantic partners and also by parents toward children.
Meaning: a person very much liked or loved by someone (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is a diminutive of schat, which means 'treasure', so it literally translates to 'little treasure'.
Which one should you use?
While Schatje is the diminutive and sounds more affectionate or 'cute', schat is the full noun and is also frequently used as a term of endearment.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of Schatje is schatjes.
Did you know?
- While schatje is usually affectionate, using the full word schat in a slow or stressed tone can sometimes be used sarcastically to condescend to someone.
- The diminutive -je is so pervasive in Dutch endearments that many common nouns are turned into 'cute' versions to soften a request or a command.
- In Dutch, you can use schatje to describe anything 'sweet' or 'precious' that isn't a person, such as a small, lovely object, though it is most commonly used for people.
Examples in context
- Ik hou van jou, schatje.I love you, sweetheart.This sentence shows how to express love using Schatje.Tatoeba #808323 by Martha, translation #139171 by fengrim
- Hoe gaat het, liefje?How are you, sweetheart?
- Fijne dag, mijn geliefde.Have a nice day, my beloved.
- Hoi schatje, hoe was je dag?Hi sweetheart, how was your day?
- Hoe gaat het met je, schatje?How are you doing, sweetheart?
- Kom hier eens, mijn kleine schatje.Come here, my little sweetheart.
Example conversation
Lisa and Levi are relaxing at home on the sofa.
- LisaWil je nog wat thee, schatje?Do you want some more tea, sweetheart?
- LeviNee bedankt, Lisa, ik ben tevreden.No thanks, Lisa, I am content.
- LisaJe bent een lieverd, Levi.You are a sweetheart, Levi.
- LeviEn jij bent mijn alles.And you are my everything.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
