je ziet er mooi uit
The English phrase "you look beautiful" is translated into Dutch as je ziet er mooi uit.
This phrase is a compliment used to tell someone that their current physical appearance is attractive. It is distinct from je bent mooi, which refers to the person's inherent beauty or character.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is a literal construction where zien…uit is a separable verb meaning "to look" (in appearance), er acts as a placeholder particle and mooi means "beautiful".
How does it change in a sentence?
Because zien…uit is a separable verb, in a question the particle uit moves to the end: Zie je er mooi uit? (Do you look beautiful?). Replacing the adjective mooi with prachtig increases the intensity of the compliment from 'beautiful' to 'gorgeous' or 'stunning'.
Did you know?
- The word mooi is sometimes used sarcastically in Dutch to mean 'great' or 'wonderful' when something actually goes wrong.
- While je ziet er mooi uit is a direct compliment, Dutch culture often favors more understated praise to avoid appearing overly effusive.
- The word mooi may share an ancient root with the idea of being 'washed' or 'clean', suggesting that beauty was once linked to hygiene.
Examples in context
- U bent werkelijk oogverblindend vanavondYou are truly dazzling tonight
- Je ziet er mooi uit in die jurk.You look beautiful in that dress.
Example conversation
Daan and Julia are getting ready for a party.
- JuliaDaan, vind je mijn outfit leuk?Daan, do you like my outfit?
- DaanJa, je ziet er mooi uit, Julia.Yes, you look beautiful, Julia.
- JuliaDank je wel, dat is lief!Thank you, that is sweet!
- DaanGeen probleem, we kunnen nu gaan.No problem, we can go now.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries er, mooi, uit, CC BY-SA 4.0.
