jy lyk mooi
/jəi ləik ˈmoːi̯ ~ muə̯j/word by word
The English phrase "you look beautiful" can be translated into Afrikaans as jy lyk mooi.
This phrase is a compliment used to tell someone that their physical appearance is attractive.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of jy (you), lyk (look/appear) and mooi (beautiful/pretty).
How does it change in a sentence?
To compliment more than one person, change the pronoun jy to julle, resulting in julle lyk mooi. For a polite or formal tone, replace jy with u to get u lyk mooi.
How do you pronounce it?
/jəi ləik ˈmoːi̯ ~ muə̯j/
Did you know?
- In some contexts, mooi can be used sarcastically to mean 'great' or 'wonderful' when something has actually gone wrong.
- The word lyk is a cognate of the English word 'like', as both derive from a Proto-Germanic root referring to a body or form.
- In Afrikaans, mooi can be used as an adverb to describe how an action is performed, such as 'singing beautifully' or 'walking nicely'.
Examples in context
- Jy lyk absoluut betowerendYou look absolutely enchanting
- Jy lyk pragtig, jou glimlag verlig die hele vertrek.You look beautiful, your smile lights up the whole room.
- Jy lyk mooi vandag.You look beautiful today.
- Jy lyk mooi in daardie blou rok.You look beautiful in that blue dress.
Example conversation
Andries and Liezel are getting ready for a party.
- LiezelAndries, jy lyk baie deftig!Andries, you look very smart!
- AndriesDankie, Liezel. Jy lyk mooi.Thank you, Liezel. You look beautiful.
- LiezelIs jy reg om te gaan?Are you ready to go?
- AndriesJa, ek is reg.Yes, I am ready.
