klem
/kɽɛm/masculine
The English word 'hug' is translated into Norwegian as klem.
klem is the most common and straightforward translation for an affectionate embrace. While it is primarily used as a masculine noun, it can also function as a verb. A common expression you might encounter is gi en bamseklem, which means 'to give a bear hug'.
Meaning: affectionate embrace (noun)
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
As a masculine noun, you can form the definite version 'the hug' by adding the suffix -en to the end, resulting in klemmen. To express the plural 'hugs', use the form klemmer.
How do you pronounce it?
/kɽɛm/
When do people say it?
In speech and written messages, it is very common to use the phrase en stor klem to mean 'a big hug'.
Did you know?
- The word klem shares a root with the English word 'clamp', reflecting the physical action of pressing two things together.
- In Norwegian digital culture, many people sign off informal emails or text messages with just the word klem as a way to say 'warm regards'.
- In many Norwegian social circles, a klem is considered a standard greeting for friends of all genders, whereas in some other cultures, it might be seen as more intimate.
Examples in context
- Jeg ga Tom en klem.I gave Tom a hug.This sentence shows how to use klem as a noun.Tatoeba #3551484 by danieljtah, translation #3330441 by CK
- Eg ville klemma henne.I wanted to hug her.This sentence demonstrates the use of the verb form related to klem.Tatoeba #12707023 by joea8, translation #2342369 by Hybrid
- Han trenger bare en klem.He just needs a hug.This sentence provides another example of using klem as a noun.Tatoeba #10942686 by Mayk, translation #9238771 by CH
- Jeg ønsker å gi deg en klem.I want to give you a hug.
- Hun trengte trøst, så jeg ga henne en varm omfavnelse.She needed comfort, so I gave her a warm hug.
- Kan jeg få en klem?Can I get a hug?
- Etter å ha vunnet kampen, gikk han bort og ga treneren sin en varm bamseklem.After winning the match, he went over and gave his coach a warm bear hug.
- 2 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Magnus and Nora are saying goodbye at the station.
- MagnusGi meg en klem før du drar.Give me a hug before you go.
- NoraJa, det skal jeg gjøre.Yes, I will do that.
- MagnusDet var en god klem.That was a good hug.
- NoraTakk, Magnus. Ha det bra!Thanks, Magnus. Goodbye!
Sources
- Wiktionary, “hug” translations and entries klem, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
