hei, jeg heter
The Norwegian phrase for "hi, my name is" is hei, jeg heter.
This phrase is used to introduce yourself to another person. While you can also use jeg er (I am) to introduce yourself, jeg heter is the standard and more common way to state your name.
What does it mean word for word?
The part jeg heter literally translates to "I am called" rather than "my name is".
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb heter is the present tense form of å hete (to be called). In the present tense, heter does not change based on the person, so it remains the same whether you are saying I, you, he or they are called.
Did you know?
- The Norwegian word hei is an ancient relative of the English word 'heath'.
- In Norway, it is common to introduce oneself with hei, jeg heter while simultaneously giving a firm handshake and maintaining direct eye contact.
- In some Norwegian dialects, the pronunciation of jeg can sound closer to 'je' or 'ja', which can confuse learners expecting the written form.
Examples in context
- Hei, mitt navn er Anna.Hello, my name is Anna.
- God dag, jeg heter Lars.Good day, my name is Lars.
- Hei, jeg heter Anders.Hi, my name is Anders.
- Hei, jeg heter Erik.Hi, my name is Erik.
- Hei, jeg heter Maria.Hi, my name is Maria.
- Hei, jeg heter Olav.Hi, my name is Olav.
Example conversation
Jakob and Nora meet for the first time at a party.
- JakobHei, jeg heter Jakob.Hi, my name is Jakob.
- NoraHei Jakob! Jeg heter Nora.Hi Jakob! My name is Nora.
- JakobHyggelig å møte deg, Nora.Nice to meet you, Nora.
- NoraI likevel, hyggelig å møte deg også.Likewise, nice to meet you too.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries hei, jeg, CC BY-SA 4.0.
