fijn weekend
/fɛi̯n ˈʋikɛnt/word by word
In Dutch, the phrase "have a great weekend" is expressed as fijn weekend.
fijn weekend is a friendly wish used as a parting expression, typically on Friday afternoon or before leaving someone for the weekend.
Which one should you use?
While fijn weekend is the most common way to say this, you may also hear goed weekend. However, fijn is more idiomatic when wishing someone enjoyment.
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase is an elliptical expression, which means the verb heb (have) is omitted in common usage.
How do you pronounce it?
/fɛi̯n ˈʋikɛnt/
When do people say it?
When someone wishes you a nice weekend, a common and natural response is Jij ook! (You too!) or Hetzelfde! (The same to you!).
Did you know?
- The word fijn originally comes from the Latin fīnis, which meant 'end' or 'limit'. Over time, it shifted from meaning 'refined' or 'thin' to meaning 'nice' or 'pleasant'.
- When responding to fijn weekend, you can simply say Insgelijks. This is a single, elegant word that means 'likewise' or 'the same to you', though it sounds quite sophisticated.
- In the Netherlands, the 'weekend' socially begins on Friday evening. Wishing someone a fijn weekend on a Friday morning is common and not considered premature.
Examples in context
- Fijn weekend.Have a great weekend.
- Een fijn weekend toegewenst.Wishing you a nice weekend.
- Geniet van het weekend.Enjoy the weekend.
- Ik wens je een fijn weekend!I wish you a great weekend!
- Nog een fijn weekend gewenst.Wishing you a great weekend.
- Doei, fijn weekend!Bye, have a great weekend!
Example conversation
Lisa and Levi are leaving the office on Friday afternoon.
- LisaTot maandag, Levi! Fijn weekend!See you Monday, Levi! Have a great weekend!
- LeviDank je, Lisa. Jij ook!Thank you, Lisa. You too!
- LisaGa je iets leuks doen?Are you doing something fun?
- LeviJa, ik ga wandelen. Tot maandag!Yes, I am going hiking. See you Monday!
Sources
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (fijn, weekend) and can differ in connected speech.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries fijn, weekend, CC BY-SA 4.0.
