god fornøjelse
To say "have fun" in Danish, use god fornøjelse.
The phrase is used to wish someone a good time.
Meaning: wish someone a good time (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase god fornøjelse literally translates to "good enjoyment".
Which one should you use?
While god fornøjelse is often used when someone is about to experience an event (like a show or a meal), hav det sjovt is more general and used in everyday social contexts.
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
god fornøjelse is a polite and slightly more formal way to wish someone a good time compared to casual alternatives. In contrast, hav det sjovt is a common, more colloquial way to say 'have fun' in Danish.
Did you know?
- The word fornøjelse is built upon the root nøje, which means 'to be precise' or 'to be careful' in modern Danish. This suggests that, historically, true enjoyment was linked to something being exactly right or sufficient.
- The Danish word sjov in the alternative phrase hav det sjovt is also used to describe things that are 'funny' or 'humorous', meaning you are essentially wishing someone 'have the funny'.
- Because fornøjelse implies a certain level of refined pleasure, using it to describe a wild, messy party might sound slightly sarcastic or overly formal to a native speaker.
Examples in context
- Jeg håber, du får en fantastisk dag. Ha' det sjovt på arbejdet!I hope you have a fantastic day. Have fun at work!
- Skal vi se en film i aften? God fornøjelse!Shall we watch a movie tonight? Enjoy!
- God fornøjelse med filmen!Have fun with the movie!
- Vi ønsker jer god fornøjelse.We wish you a good time.
- God fornøjelse på din ferie.Have fun on your vacation.
Example conversation
Mikkel is leaving for a concert and Freja says goodbye.
- FrejaSkal du til koncert nu?Are you going to the concert now?
- MikkelJa, jeg skal afsted nu.Yes, I am leaving now.
- FrejaGod fornøjelse, Mikkel!Have fun, Mikkel!
- MikkelTak, Freja!Thanks, Freja!
