Learn Hardcore Romanian: Sandvișul de azi este bun.

In Romanian, the definite article is enclitic (attached to the end of the noun). sandviș alone means “a sandwich,” and sandvișul means “the sandwich.”

What is the function of de in sandvișul de azi?

Here de links the noun to a time expression, literally “the sandwich of today,” which we translate as “today’s sandwich.” This construction is common for “today’s,” “yesterday’s,” etc.

Why is it azi and not astăzi? Are they interchangeable?

Both azi and astăzi mean “today.” azi is more colloquial and frequent in speech, while astăzi is slightly more formal. You can use either here.

Why is the adjective bun not bună?

Adjectives agree in gender and number with the noun they describe. sandviș is masculine singular, so the masculine form bun is used. If the noun were feminine (e.g., salată), you’d say salata de azi este bună.

Can you drop este and just say Sandvișul de azi bun?

No. Romanian generally requires the verb a fi (“to be”) in present indicative for a complete sentence with a predicate adjective. Omitting este would be ungrammatical.

Could you use an alternative word for bun to say “good”?

Yes. You might use foarte bun for “very good,” delicios for “delicious,” or gustos for “tasty.” For example: Sandvișul de azi este foarte bun.

How do you pronounce the ș in sandvișul?

The letter ș is pronounced like the English “sh” in “shoe.” So sandvișul sounds roughly like “sahnd-VEESH-ool.”