trevlig helg
The English phrase "have a great weekend" is expressed in Swedish as trevlig helg.
trevlig helg is a friendly wish used to tell someone to enjoy their time off during the weekend.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase trevlig helg literally translates to "pleasant weekend".
Which one should you use?
While you might think of using the words for "good" or "fantastic", it is more common to use the adjective trevlig (pleasant/nice) in this specific social formula.
Is it said differently in some regions?
Swedish speakers in Finland use trevlig helg just like in Sweden.
How does it change in a sentence?
The full imperative sentence starts with the verb Ha (have), whereas the shortened phrase trevlig helg is a common elliptical way to say it.
When do people say it?
A common and natural response to this wish is Detsamma!, which means "the same to you!" You can also respond politely by saying Tack, detsamma!, which means "Thanks, the same to you!"
Did you know?
- In Swedish, the word helg is related to the concept of something being 'holy' or 'sacred', much like the English 'holy'.
- While trevlig helg is used for the weekend, Swedes use the same adjective trevlig for other seasonal wishes, such as trevlig jul for 'Merry Christmas'.
- Using trevlig instead of a word for 'good' suggests a sense of coziness and social harmony rather than just high quality or intensity.
Examples in context
- Ha en trevlig helg!Have a great weekend!This sentence is useful for seeing the full imperative form of trevlig helg.Tatoeba #10714462 by Pineapple, translation #1824738 by sundown
- Önskar er en trevlig helg.Wishing you all a great weekend.
- 1 more sentence on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Two colleagues are leaving the office on Friday afternoon.
- ErikNu går jag hem. Trevlig helg, Maja!I'm going home now. Have a great weekend, Maja!
- MajaTack så mycket, Erik!Thank you so much, Erik!
- MajaTrevlig helg till dig också.Have a great weekend to you too.
- ErikTack, vi ses på måndag!Thanks, see you on Monday!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries helg, trevlig, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
