Maak die veiligheidsgordels vas; steek nie in swaar verkeer verby nie.

in

Breakdown of Maak die veiligheidsgordels vas; steek nie in swaar verkeer verby nie.

• nie: not
• swaar: heavy
• maak vas: to fasten

Questions & Answers about Maak die veiligheidsgordels vas; steek nie in swaar verkeer verby nie.

Why is vas separated from maak in Maak die veiligheidsgordels vas?

Because the dictionary form is vasmaak (to fasten), and this is a separable verb.

In a main clause or command, Afrikaans often splits this kind of verb:

• vasmaak → Maak ... vas
• toemaak → Maak ... toe
• oopmaak → Maak ... oop

So Maak die veiligheidsgordels vas literally behaves like Fasten the seat belts up/secure.

Why does the sentence use die veiligheidsgordels instead of your seat belts?

Afrikaans often uses the article (die) in instructions where English would use your or no article at all.

So:

• Maak die veiligheidsgordels vas = Fasten your seat belts / Fasten seat belts

This is very normal in commands and notices. The context already makes it clear whose seat belts are meant.

Why is veiligheidsgordels plural?