ja tack
/jɑː tak/word by word
The English phrase "yes please" is translated into Swedish as ja tack.
ja tack is used to politely accept an offer of something, such as food, a drink or assistance.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of ja (yes) and tack (thanks).
Did you know?
- In very informal settings, Swedes might shorten the affirmative ja to a soft jo when disagreeing with a negative statement, which is a distinct 'yes' that English lacks.
- While English speakers use 'please' to ask for something, Swedes often use tack at the end of a request, making the English 'please' function more like a 'thank you in advance'.
- The word tack shares the same ancient roots as the English word 'thank', both descending from the Proto-Germanic *þankō.
Examples in context
- Ja tack, det vore trevligt.Yes please, that would be nice.
- En kopp kaffe? Ja tack.A cup of coffee? Yes please.
Example conversation
Alice offers Lucas a glass of water.
- AliceVill du ha ett glas vatten, Lucas?Do you want a glass of water, Lucas?
- LucasJa tack, jag är väldigt törstig.Yes please, I am very thirsty.
- AliceHär är det, varsågod.Here it is, you're welcome.
- LucasTack så mycket, Alice.Thank you very much, Alice.
