tak jest
/ˈtak ˈjɛst/word by word
The English phrase "yes sir" is translated into Polish as tak jest.
tak jest is used to acknowledge an order or to confirm a fact, typically in military or highly hierarchical settings. It functions as a formal, affirmative response to show respect or obedience to a superior.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "it is so".
Which one should you use?
While the single word tak means "yes", using the full phrase tak jest provides the formal, affirmative tone equivalent to "yes sir" or "that is correct".
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈtak ˈjɛst/
Did you know?
- In highly formal Polish military protocol, tak jest is often accompanied by a sharp snap of the heels or a rigid salute.
- The Polish word jest shares a common ancestor with the English verb 'is' and the Latin 'est'. They all descend from the same Proto-Indo-European root meaning 'to be'.
- While tak jest is used in military contexts, using it in a civilian office may be perceived as sarcastic or overly dramatic unless the hierarchy is extreme.
Examples in context
- Tak jest!Yes, Sir!Tatoeba #831694 by zipangu, translation #831677 by FeuDRenais2
- Tak, Panie.Yes sir.
- Jasne, szefie.Sure, boss.
- Tak jest, już to robię.Yes sir, I am doing it already.
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
A subordinate reports to her boss in an office.
- MałgorzataCzy skończyła pani ten raport, Małgorzato?Did you finish the report, Małgorzata?
- TomaszTak jest, panie Tomaszu.Yes sir, Mr. Tomasz.
- MałgorzataProszę go teraz wysłać.Please send it now.
- TomaszTak jest, zrobię to natychmiast.Yes sir, I will do it immediately.
Sources
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (tak, jest) and can differ in connected speech.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries jest, tak, tak jest, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
