Far vel
The English phrase "goodbye" is translated into Old Norse as Far vel.
The phrase is used as a farewell, meaning "farewell".
Meaning: farewell (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
Far vel is composed of the verb far (the imperative form of fara, meaning "to go") and the adverb vel (meaning "well").
How does it change in a sentence?
If you are addressing more than one person, the verb changes to the second-person plural imperative Farið vel.
Did you know?
- The word fara did not just mean 'to go' but could also mean 'to travel' or 'to pass away', giving Far vel a potentially solemn undertone in certain contexts.
- The word vel shares a common ancestor with the English word 'wealth', as both stem from the concept of being 'well' or prosperous.
Examples in context
- Far vel, vinr minn.Farewell, my friend.
Example conversation
Astrid and Olaf are parting ways after a long journey.
- AstridEk skal nú fara, Olaf.I must go now, Olaf.
- OlafGakk í friði, Astrid.Go in peace, Astrid.
- AstridFar vel, góði maðr.Farewell, good man.
- OlafFar vel, Astrid.Farewell, Astrid.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries far, vel, CC BY-SA 4.0.
