apsveicu
The Latvian phrase for congratulations is apsveicu.
The phrase is used to express approbation.
Meaning: expressing approbation (intj)
Which one should you use?
The verb apsveicu translates to "I congratulate you," whereas the noun apsveicieni! is the standard exclamation used to say "Congratulations!" on its own. If you want to express excitement or happiness for an achievement in a more casual way, you might say Tas ir forši! (That's awesome!).
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb apsveicu is transitive, meaning it can be followed directly by an object such as a person's name or the word tevi (you). The infinitive form of the verb is apsveikt.
Did you know?
- In Latvian, the root of apsveicu is linked to the word svētība, which means 'blessing'. To congratulate someone is, linguistically, to wish a 'blessing upon' them.
- The verb apsveikt shares a root with the word for 'greeting', meaning that in Latvian, the act of congratulating someone and the act of saying 'hello' are linguistically linked.
- Latvian culture often accompanies such congratulations with a specific toast during celebrations, where the words are often part of a longer, structured speech rather than a single exclamation.
Examples in context
- Sirsnīgi apsveicu ar izciliem sasniegumiem!Heartfelt congratulations on your exceptional achievements!
Example conversation
Zane tells Jānis about his promotion.
- ZaneJāni, es dzirdēju ziņas! Apsveicu!Jānis, I heard the news! Congratulations!
- JānisPaldiebu, Zane! Esmu ļoti priecīgs.Thank you, Zane! I am very happy.
- ZaneTev tas tiešām ir no dažiem gadiem.You really deserve it after a few years.
- JānisTev lielu paldiesu par atbalstu.Thank you very much for the support.
