Das ist aber lieb von dir
That's so kind of you
Language note: The phrase emphasizes gratitude; 'aber' is used adverbially to soften and express affection or surprise.
Culture note: Acknowledging kindness is an essential part of polite exchange.
Context: Your future in-laws are touched by your thoughtfulness.
Word-by-Word Breakdown
Das
[dahs]
that
Used to identify a specific object.
Das ist mein Buch.
That is my book.
ist
[ist]
is
Third person singular form of 'to be'.
Der Kaffee ist heiß.
The coffee is hot.
aber
[AH-ber]
but
Used to indicate the contrary.
Er ist müde, aber er arbeitet.
He is tired, but he works.
lieb
[leep]
nice
Showing kindness or friendliness.
Das war sehr lieb von dir.
That was very nice of you.
von
[fon]
of
Belonging to someone.
Das ist das Haus von Anna.
This is Anna's house.
dir
[deer]
you (singular informal)
Refers to someone the speaker is familiar with.
Das ist nett von dir.
That is nice of you.
Phrase Parts
Das
That
Used to specify which of something is meant.
Das ist interessant.
That is interesting.
ist
is
Third person singular form of 'to be'.
Es ist wichtig.
It is important.
aber
but
Conjunction used to introduce a contrasting idea.
Es ist kalt, aber sonnig.
It is cold, but sunny.
lieb
kind
An adjective describing someone as kind-hearted.
Sie ist lieb.
She is kind.
von dir
of you
Indicating ownership or origin.
Das ist nett von dir.
That is nice of you.
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