Так, будь ласка
The English phrase "yes, please" is translated into Ukrainian as Так, будь ласка.
Так, будь ласка is used to say "Yes, please" in Ukrainian.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase consists of Так (yes) and будь ласка (please). In this context, будь is the imperative form of the verb "to be" and ласка means "favor" or "kindness".
Did you know?
- In Ukrainian, будь ласка is used both to ask for something and to grant permission. If someone asks if they can sit down, you can reply with будь ласка to mean 'please do'.
- If you say будь ласка while handing someone an object, it functions as 'here you go' rather than 'please'. This is a common cultural gesture of politeness during an exchange.
- The phrase будь ласка is technically a command because будь is the imperative form of the verb 'to be'. You are literally commanding the other person to be 'kind'.
Examples in context
- Так, будь ласка, дайте мені меню.Tak, bud' laska, dayte meni menyu.Yes, please, give me the menu.
- Так, будь ласка, допоможіть мені з цим.Tak, bud' laska, dopomohit' meni z tsym.Yes, please, help me with this.
Example conversation
Alexander offers Irina a cup of tea.
- Олександр OleksandrБажаєте чаю, Ірино?Bazhate chayu, Iryno?Would you like some tea, Irina?
- Ірина IrynaТак, будь ласка.Tak, bud laska.Yes, please.
- Олександр OleksandrЦукор чи лимон?Tsukor chy lymon?Sugar or lemon?
- Ірина IrynaТільки лимон, дякую.Tilky lymon, dyakuyu.Just lemon, thank you.
