hæ, hvernig hefurðu það?
hæ, hvernig hefurðu það? is the Icelandic way to say "hi, how are you?"
This phrase is a common greeting used to say hello and ask about someone's well-being.
What does it mean word for word?
The part hvernig hefurðu það? literally translates to "how have you it?" in English.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Reykjavík, locals may use Halló to say "hello".
When do people say it?
Regarding other greetings, Góðan dag means "Good day" and serves as a slightly less formal variation of Góðan daginn.
Did you know?
- If you use the phrase hvernig hefurðu það? with a stranger, you might find it more intimate than intended, as it focuses heavily on one's personal state.
- The word hæ is a relatively recent addition to the Icelandic language, having been borrowed from English 'hi' after 1970.
- Because Icelandic has very few native words for 'hello', many people use Halló, which is a direct phonetic borrowing from English.
Examples in context
- Góðan daginn, hvernig eruð þið?Good day, how are you?
- Góðan dag, Kári. Hvernig hefurðu það?Good day, Kári. How have you been?
- Hæ, hvað segir þú?Hello, how are you?
- Hæ, hvernig hefurðu það?Hi, how are you?
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries hvernig, hæ, það, CC BY-SA 4.0.
