terveiset
/ˈterʋei̯set/
terveiset is the Finnish word for "greetings".
terveiset is a formal way of saying "hello". It is also commonly used as a standalone exclamation, Terveiset!, to send well-wishes or greetings to a person through a third party.
Meaning: formal way of saying "hello" (intj)
Which one should you use?
While terveiset is used for sending formal greetings, the singular form terve is a common and more casual way to say "hello" directly to someone.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈterʋei̯set/
When do people say it?
In Finnish culture, it is customary to shake hands when greeting someone formally. However, Finns value personal space, so you should refrain from excessive physical contact during greetings unless you are close friends or family. You may also use time-specific greetings such as Hyvää kevättä! (Happy spring!) or Hyvää joulua! (Merry Christmas!).
Did you know?
- The word terve is a cognate of the German 'gesundheit', as both derive from an ancient root meaning 'healthy' or 'whole'.
- The root of terveiset, which is terve, literally means 'healthy'. When you greet someone, you are essentially wishing them a state of being healthy.
- While terveiset is formal, the shortened terve is so versatile it can be used as a greeting or a farewell depending on the context and tone.
Examples in context
- Terveiset.Many greetings.This sentence shows the use of terveiset as a standalone exclamation to send well-wishes.Tatoeba #7844201 by Thanuir, translation #1130973 by cntrational
- Moikka, Maija!Hi, Maija!
- Hei, Matti!Hello, Matti!
- Hyvät terveiset koko perheelle.Best greetings to the whole family.
Example conversation
Antti and Emma meet at a formal business event.
- AnttiTerveiset, rouva Emma.Greetings, Ms. Emma.
- EmmaKiitos, terveiset myös teille.Thank you, greetings to you too.
- AnttiOnko matkasi sujunut hyvin?Has your trip gone well?
- EmmaKyllä, kiitos kysymästästä.Yes, thank you for asking.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry terveiset, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries terveiset, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
