kjølig
The English phrase "cool" (referring to temperature) can be translated into Norwegian using kjølig or sval.
Meaning: having a slightly low temperature (adj)
Ways to say it
| Norwegian |
|---|
| kjølig |
| sval |
These words are used to describe a slightly low temperature. If you want to say that a relationship or atmosphere has become less intense or less amicable, you can use the verb hardne.
Which one should you use?
kjølig is the standard word used for a cool temperature, typically applied to the weather or the temperature of a room. It is less intense than kald, which means cold. sval is used specifically to describe a cool, refreshing and pleasant temperature, often in the context of a breeze or shade.
Related words
Did you know?
- Unlike the English word 'cool', which is widely used as slang for 'great' or 'fashionable', neither kjølig nor sval are used this way. To say something is 'cool' in a slang sense, Norwegians often use the English word 'cool' itself.
- While kjølig describes a temperature, the Norwegian word kjøl also means the 'keel' of a ship. This creates a linguistic overlap between the feeling of a breeze and the lowest part of a boat.
- The word sval is a direct inheritance from the Old Norse word svalr. This means the word has remained virtually unchanged in its core meaning and sound for over a millennium.
Examples in context
- Det er definitivt kjølig i dag.It's definitely cool today.This sentence is useful for stating that the temperature today is kjølig.Tatoeba #14047501 by Mayk, translation #13756285 by CK
- Du har en stilig bilYou have a stylish car
- Det var en gøyal opplevelseThat was a fun experience
- Konserten var helt råThe concert was totally awesome
- Wow, den er helt rå!Wow, that's totally awesome!
- Vinen smaker best når den er kjølig.The wine tastes best when it is cool.
- Det er kjølig i vannet i kveld.The water is cool tonight.
Example conversation
Emma and Magnus are deciding what to wear for a walk.
- EmmaSkal vi gå en tur nå?Shall we go for a walk now?
- MagnusJa, men det er ganske kjølig ute.Yes, but it is quite cool outside.
- EmmaDa tar jeg med en jakke.Then I will bring a jacket.
- MagnusDet er en god idé, Emma.That is a good idea, Emma.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “cool” translations and entries kjølig, sval, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries kjølig, sval, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
