Guð blessi þig
The English phrase "bless you" is translated into Icelandic as Guð blessi þig. If unsure, use Guð blessi þig. Wiktionary also lists guð hjálpi þér and hjálpi þér.
Meaning: said to somebody who has sneezed (intj)
Ways to say it
| Icelandic |
|---|
| Guð blessi þig |
| guð hjálpi þér |
| hjálpi þér |
| blessi þig |
These phrases are used to respond to someone who has sneezed.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase Guð blessi þig literally means "God bless you". The phrase guð hjálpi þér literally means "God help you".
Which one should you use?
Guð blessi þig is the full expression, while blessi þig is a shortened version. guð hjálpi þér is a variation meaning "God help you", and hjálpi þér is a shortened form of this variation.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
blessi þig is an informal, shortened version of Guð blessi þig used in everyday conversation.
How does it change in a sentence?
The shortened form hjálpi þér uses the subjunctive mood of the verb hjálpa (to help) to express a wish or prayer.
Did you know?
Example sentences for Icelandic are not verified yet.
Example conversation
Ólafur and Katrín are sitting in a living room.
- Ólafur*sneezes**sneezes*
- KatrínGuð blessi þig, Ólafur.Bless you, Ólafur.
- ÓlafurTakk, Katrín.Thanks, Katrín.
- KatrínErtu að fá sýkingu?Are you getting a cold?
Sources
- Wiktionary, “bless you” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Guð, guð, þig, þér, CC BY-SA 4.0.
