Learning a new language involves understanding the cultural and environmental context in which it is spoken. One aspect of this is knowing seasonal vocabulary to help describe the weather, holidays, and activities typical of each season. For learners of Afrikaans, a West Germanic language spoken primarily in South Africa and Namibia, grasping these seasonal terms is a great asset. Here’s a breakdown of Afrikaans vocabulary by season, complete with definitions and example sentences to enhance your learning.

Lente (Spring)
Lente is the Afrikaans word for spring, the season of renewal and growth. It is a time when flowers begin to bloom, and the weather starts to warm up.

Die lente is my gunsteling seisoen omdat alles nuut en vars voel.

Somer (Summer)
Somer refers to the summer season, characterized by warm weather and longer days. It’s a time for outdoor activities and vacations.

In die somer gaan ons dikwels strand toe om te swem en te sonbaai.

Herfs (Autumn/Fall)
Herfs is the word for autumn, also known as fall, a season marked by the changing colors of leaves and a gradual cooling of the temperature.

Die blare verander kleur in die herfs, wat ‘n baie pragtige gesig is.

Winter (Winter)
Winter is named just like in English and involves the coldest season of the year, often associated with snow in some parts of the world and cozy fires in others.

Gedurende die winter dra ons dik jasse om teen die koue beskerm te word.

Each season also brings specific activities and holidays, which come with their own set of vocabulary:

Kersfees (Christmas)
Celebrated in the summer in the Southern Hemisphere, Kersfees is a time for family gatherings and festive cheer.

Kersfees is ‘n tyd van saamwees en geskenke uitruil met geliefdes.

Paasfees (Easter)
Paasfees is the Afrikaans term for Easter, a holiday in spring that often involves Easter egg hunts and family meals.

Kinders geniet dit om eiers te soek op Paasfees.

Braai (Barbecue)
A braai is a traditional South African barbecue, popular in summer when people enjoy cooking outdoors.

Ons hou ‘n braai by die huis om die begin van die somer te vier.

Sneeuman (Snowman)
For those experiencing a cold winter, building a sneeuman, or snowman, is a common activity.

Kyk hoe groot is die sneeuman wat ons kinders gemaak het!

Seasonal change affects more than just the physical environment; it also influences people’s moods, cuisines, and cultural expressions. By integrating these seasonal terms into your Afrikaans vocabulary, you’ll be more equipped to engage in conversations related to the time of year, participate in seasonal activities, and understand the rhythm of life in Afrikaans-speaking communities.

Whether it’s enjoying a braai on a warm summer evening, gathering with family for Kersfees, observing the changing leaves during herfs, or warming up with friends during the koue winter months, knowing these seasonal terms will help you to connect more deeply with the Afrikaans language and culture. Happy learning!