evet efendim
/evet efendim/from spelling rules
The English phrase "yes sir" is translated into Turkish as evet efendim.
Evet efendim is a polite and formal way to say "yes sir" when speaking to someone in a position of authority. In many contexts, such as answering a telephone or responding when someone calls your name, you may use the shortened form efendim instead of the full phrase.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of evet, meaning "yes" and efendim, meaning "my master", "my lord", "sir" or "ma'am".
Which one should you use?
While the English "sir" is gender-specific, the Turkish term efendim is gender-neutral and can be used when addressing both men and women in a position of respect or authority. Another formal option is evet beyefendi, which also translates to "yes sir".
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation is /evet efendim/. The sounds are similar to the English words: [v]ase for the /v/, [f]ood for the /f/, [n]ot for the /n/, cr[ee]k for the /i/ and [m]uch for the /m/.
Did you know?
- The word evet may be linked to an ancient Proto-Turkic root meaning 'to be quick', suggesting that saying 'yes' was originally a way of expressing swiftness.
- While efendim is used for 'sir', it is also the standard way to say 'pardon' or 'what did you say' when you didn't hear someone clearly.
- The word efendim literally translates to 'my master' or 'my lord', highlighting a historical hierarchy reflected in modern politeness.
Examples in context
- Evet efendim, yemek çok güzeldi.Yes sir, the meal was excellent.
- Evet efendim, hemen yapıyorum.Yes sir, I am doing it right now.
- Anlaşıldı, evet efendim.Understood, yes sir.
- Yeni rapor hazır mı? Evet efendim, hazır.Is the new report ready? Yes sir, it is ready.
Example conversation
Selin is speaking to her boss, Burak, in the office.
- BurakSelin, bu raporu bugün bitirebilir misin?Selin, can you finish this report today?
- SelinEvet efendim, bitirebilirim.Yes sir, I can finish it.
- BurakGüzel, saat beşe kadar bana gönder.Good, send it to me by five o'clock.
- SelinTamamdır efendim, gönderirim.All right sir, I will send it.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Turkish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries evet, CC BY-SA 4.0.
