hei ja kiitos
/ˈhei̯ ˈjɑ ˈkiːtos/word by word
In Finnish, hei ja kiitos is the way to say "hello and thank you".
This phrase combines a friendly greeting with an expression of gratitude.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of hei (hello), ja (and) and kiitos (thank you).
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
hei ja kiitos is an informal expression. While hei is a common, informal greeting, you might use päivää (good day) in more formal settings. For informal greetings specifically, you can also use Moi or Terve.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈhei̯ ˈjɑ ˈkiːtos/
When do people say it?
When visiting someone's home in Finland, it is considered polite to remove your shoes.
Did you know?
Examples in context
- Hei ja kiitos avusta.Hello and thank you for the help.
- Hei ja kiitos kutsusta.Hello and thank you for the invitation.
Example conversation
Emma is receiving a package from Matti.
- EmmaHei ja kiitos paketista, Matti!Hello and thank you for the package, Matti!
- MattiOle hyvä, Emma.You are welcome, Emma.
- EmmaOlitko sinä kiireinen?Were you busy?
- MattiEn ollut, ei hätää.I wasn't, no worries.
