wracaj do zdrowia
The English phrase 'get well' is expressed in Polish as wracaj do zdrowia.
The phrase is used to wish someone a recovery from an illness or injury. While wracaj do zdrowia acts as a direct wish or command, you may also see the phrase Szybkiego powrotu do zdrowia! used in cards or messages to mean 'Wishing you a speedy recovery!'
Meaning: to recover from illness or injury (verb)
What does it mean word for word?
wracaj do zdrowia literally translates to 'return to health'.
Which one should you use?
Use wracaj do zdrowia as a general way to say 'get back to health!' For a more informal and direct 'Get well soon!', you can use Zdrowiej szybko! For a formal and polite expression of 'I wish you a quick return to health', use Życzę szybkiego powrotu do zdrowia.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
The default form wracaj do zdrowia is informal and suitable for use with friends, family or children. For formal situations involving a single person, use niech pan wraca do zdrowia when addressing a man or niech pani wraca do zdrowia when addressing a woman.
How does it change in a sentence?
To address more than one person, use the plural imperative form wracajcie do zdrowia.
Did you know?
- In Poland, instead of just saying a phrase, it is common to accompany 'get well' wishes by wishing someone 'strength' (siły) or 'patience' (cierpliwość), as recovery is seen as a mental battle as much as a physical one.
- The word zdrowie (health) is also used as a standalone toast, similar to 'Cheers!', though it is traditionally used in more serious or formal settings than a standard drink.
- In some traditional Polish homes, a 'get well' wish might be paired with the advice to drink a warm glass of milk with honey and butter.
Examples in context
- Szybko wracaj do zdrowia!Get well soon!
Example conversation
Piotr is visiting Katarzyna who has a cold.
- PiotrPrzykro mi, że jesteś chora.I am sorry that you are sick.
- KatarzynaDziękuję, czuję się bardzo słabo.Thank you, I feel very weak.
- PiotrWracaj do zdrowia, Katarzyno.Get well, Katarzyna.
- KatarzynaDziękuję, Piotr.Thank you, Piotr.
