Learn Hardcore Afrikaans: Die grap is grappig.

Die is the definite article in Afrikaans, equivalent to “the” in English. It’s used before both singular and plural nouns when you’re referring to a specific item or concept. In this sentence, die grap means “the joke.”

What role does is play in Die grap is grappig?

Is is the copular (linking) verb in Afrikaans, just like “is” in English. It connects the subject (die grap) to its predicate (grappig), so the structure mirrors English Subject + Verb + Adjective.

How is the adjective grappig formed from the noun grap?

Afrikaans often forms adjectives by adding -ig to a noun or verb stem, similar to English -y (e.g., fun → funny). Here, grap (joke) becomes grappig (funny) by attaching -ig.

Why does grappig have a double p?

When a one-syllable stem ending in a single consonant (grap) takes the suffix -ig, the consonant doubles (pp) to keep the preceding vowel short. Without doubling, grapig would be misread with a long a.

Can I say ’n grap is grappig instead of die grap is grappig?

Yes. ’n grap is grappig means “a joke is funny” (indefinite). Using die makes it definite (“the joke is funny”). The meaning shifts from any joke to a specific one.

Could I drop is and say Die grap grappig?

No. In standard Afrikaans you need the linking verb is to join the subject and predicate adjective. Omitting is would be ungrammatical in this context.

How would I say the jokes are funny in Afrikaans?

You pluralize grap to grappe (add -e) and keep is or switch to is with a plural subject: Die grappe is grappig. Afrikaans does not change the verb for number in the present tense.

Is there another way to say funny besides grappig?

Yes. You can also use snaaks, which often means “amusing,” or lagbelaglik for “ridiculous”/“laughable.” Context and nuance determine which adjective fits best.