When learning Afrikaans, one of the common areas where beginners often need clarification is in understanding how to talk about door actions. This includes actions like opening and closing doors. In Afrikaans, these actions are expressed with specific phrases that might initially seem confusing to English speakers. Today, we will explore the phrases “maak oop” and “toe maak”, which are essential for describing these actions. Along the way, we will also learn some other relevant vocabulary to help you become more comfortable with these expressions.

Understanding “Maak oop” and “Toe maak”

In Afrikaans, the phrase “maak oop” translates to “open” in English, and it is used to describe the action of opening something, such as a door. Conversely, “toe maak” means “close” and is used to describe the action of closing something.

Maak oop

Maak oop – To open. This phrase is used when you want to instruct someone to open something or describe the action of opening. The phrase is comprised of two words: “maak”, which means “make” or “do,” and “oop”, which means “open.”

Maak asseblief die deur oop.

Here, you are telling someone to open the door.

Toe maak

Toe maak – To close. This phrase is used when you want to instruct someone to close something or describe the action of closing. The phrase consists of “toe”, meaning “closed” or “shut,” and “maak”, meaning “make” or “do.”

Maak asseblief die venster toe.

In this sentence, you are instructing someone to close the window.

Related Vocabulary

To better understand these phrases, it’s helpful to learn some related vocabulary. Here are some key terms and their explanations:

Deur – Door. This is the object that you are either opening or closing.
Die deur is gesluit.

Venster – Window. Another common object that can be opened or closed.
Die venster is oop.

Slot – Lock. This is a device used to secure doors and windows.
Ek het die slot oopgemaak.

Sleutel – Key. A tool used to operate a lock.
Waar is die sleutel vir die voordeur?

Knip – Latch. A fastening or locking mechanism.
Die knip is gebreek.

Knop – Knob. A round handle on a door.
Draai die knop om die deur oop te maak.

Greep – Handle. Similar to a knob, but can also refer to handles on windows.
Die greep is los.

Hengel – Hinge. The joint on which a door swings open or closed.
Die hengel kraak as jy die deur oopmaak.

Using “Maak oop” and “Toe maak” in Different Contexts

Understanding the contexts in which you can use “maak oop” and “toe maak” is crucial. Let’s look at a few different scenarios.

Everyday Conversations

In daily conversations, you might often need to instruct someone to open or close something. Here are some examples:

Maak oop die venster, asseblief.
Maak asseblief die venster oop. Dit is baie warm hierbinne.

Toe maak die deur, asseblief.
Toe maak die deur asseblief. Dit trek hier binne.

In the Workplace

In a professional setting, you might use these phrases to give instructions or describe actions:

Maak die konferensiekamer oop.
Maak asseblief die konferensiekamer oop vir die vergadering.

Toe maak die kantoor se vensters.
Maak seker dat jy die kantoor se vensters toe maak voordat jy gaan.

At Home

At home, these phrases are commonly used to manage doors and windows for comfort and security:

Maak die voordeur oop vir die gaste.
Maak asseblief die voordeur oop. Die gaste is hier.

Toe maak die agterdeur voordat ons slaap.
Maak seker dat jy die agterdeur toe maak voordat ons gaan slaap.

Practice Makes Perfect

To become proficient in using these phrases, practice is essential. Here are some tips to help you practice:

Role-playing

Engage in role-playing scenarios where you instruct someone to open or close doors and windows. This will help you get comfortable with the phrases.

Scenario: You are welcoming guests into your home.
Maak asseblief die voordeur oop en laat die gaste inkom.

Scenario: You are closing up the house for the night.
Maak seker dat jy al die vensters en deure toe maak voordat jy gaan slaap.

Flashcards

Create flashcards with the phrases and vocabulary words. On one side, write the Afrikaans phrase, and on the other side, write the English translation. Test yourself regularly.

Flashcard Example:
Front: Maak die deur toe.
Back: Close the door.

Listening and Repeating

Listen to native Afrikaans speakers using these phrases in context. Repeat after them to practice your pronunciation and intonation.

Example:
Listen to an Afrikaans podcast or watch a video where someone gives instructions involving doors and windows. Repeat the phrases you hear.

Writing Practice

Write sentences using “maak oop” and “toe maak” to describe different scenarios. This will help reinforce your understanding and usage of these phrases.

Writing Example:
Write a short paragraph about your daily routine, including actions involving doors and windows.
Elke oggend maak ek die venster in my kamer oop om vars lug in te laat. Voordat ek werk toe gaan, maak ek seker dat al die deure toe is.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While practicing, be aware of common mistakes learners make with these phrases. Here are a few to watch out for:

Mixing Up the Order

Remember that in Afrikaans, the verb often comes before the object, unlike in English. For example, “Open the door” is “Maak die deur oop” in Afrikaans, not “Oop maak die deur.”

Incorrect: Oop maak die deur.
Maak asseblief die deur oop.

Using the Wrong Verb

Ensure you are using “maak” appropriately. In English, we might say “Open the window” as a standalone command, but in Afrikaans, you must use “maak” with “oop” or “toe”.

Incorrect: Oop die venster.
Maak asseblief die venster oop.

Forgetting to Conjugate

Afrikaans verbs need to be conjugated correctly based on the subject and tense. Make sure to adjust “maak” accordingly.

Incorrect: Ek oop die deur.
Ek maak die deur oop.

Conclusion

Mastering the phrases “maak oop” and “toe maak” is a fundamental step in becoming proficient in Afrikaans, especially for everyday interactions. By understanding the structure of these phrases and practicing their usage in various contexts, you will gain confidence in your language skills.

Remember to practice regularly, be mindful of common mistakes, and immerse yourself in listening and speaking opportunities. Over time, these phrases will become second nature to you. Happy learning!