Learn Hardcore Afrikaans: Die trein is vinniger as die bus.

In Afrikaans, die is the definite article (equivalent to English “the”). It is used before every singular or plural noun when it is definite. Hence you need die trein (“the train”) and die bus (“the bus”).

Why is the English word than translated here as as?

Afrikaans uses as in comparative constructions where English uses “than.” So instead of “faster than,” you say vinniger as.

How do you form the comparative of most adjectives in Afrikaans?

You generally add -er to the positive form of the adjective. For example, vinnig (“fast”) becomes vinniger (“faster”).

Why do we use vinniger instead of meer vinnig?

Short adjectives in Afrikaans form their comparatives with -er, not with meer. Saying meer vinnig would be understood, but it’s non-standard.

Are there cases where you do use meer with adjectives?

Yes. Adjectives that are longer (often three syllables or more) or borrowed from other languages typically use meer for the comparative. For example, interessant becomes meer interessant, not interessanter.

How is vinniger pronounced, especially the final -ger part?

vinnig is pronounced [ˈfɪnːəx] or [ˈvɪnːəχ] (depending on accent), and vinniger is [ˈfɪnːəɣər] or [ˈvɪnːəɣər]. The g is a guttural sound produced at the back of the throat, similar to the Dutch g.

Can as mean something else in Afrikaans besides “than”?

Yes. When as appears at the start of a clause, it usually means “if.” But in comparative phrases like vinniger as die bus, it means “than.” Context tells you which meaning applies.

How would you make this sentence negative?

You wrap the adjective and the comparison in nie … nie, like this:
Die trein is nie vinniger as die bus nie.
This means “The train is not faster than the bus.”

How do you say “as fast as” in Afrikaans (to show equality rather than a comparison of degree)?

You use so … soos, e.g.
Die trein is so vinnig soos die bus.
This means “The train is as fast as the bus.”