Greetings and reconnecting with old acquaintances is an important aspect of human interactions. When you meet someone after a long time of not seeing each other, acknowledging the time elapsed since your last meeting is always appreciated. In Norwegian, there are various ways to express this sentiment, depending on the level of formality and the regional variations. In this guide, we will explore both formal and informal ways of saying “long time no see” in Norwegian, providing you with tips, examples, and useful information along the way.
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions
Formal expressions are commonly used in professional settings, official meetings, or when addressing someone you hold in high regard. Here are a few ways to say “long time no see” formally in Norwegian:
1. Det var lenge siden sist!
This expression translates to “It was a long time ago!” and is a polite way to address the time elapsed since your last meeting. It demonstrates respect and consideration for the other person’s absence.
2. Hyggelig å se deg igjen etter lang tid!
This phrase translates to “Nice to see you again after a long time!” and is used when you want to convey your pleasure in seeing the person after a considerable period of absence. It adds a touch of warmth and politeness to your greeting.
Informal Expressions
Informal expressions are used among friends, family, and acquaintances in casual settings. These expressions have a more relaxed tone and are suitable for less formal situations. Let’s explore some informal ways to say “long time no see” in Norwegian:
1. Lenge siden sist!
This simple expression means “Long time no see!” and is commonly used among friends and acquaintances. It conveys the feeling of pleasant surprise at seeing the person after a long absence.
2. Lenge siden sist, gitt! / I all verden, lenge siden sist!
These variants add a bit more emphasis and enthusiasm to the phrase. “Lenge siden sist, gitt!” translates to “Long time no see, huh!” and “I all verden, lenge siden sist!” means “In the world, long time no see!” These informal expressions are perfect for expressing excitement and familiarity with the person you are meeting after a prolonged absence.
Regional Variations
While the basic expressions mentioned above are understood throughout Norway, regional variations occasionally occur. The variations might involve slight differences in pronunciation or unique informal expressions based on local dialects. Here are some examples:
1. Så lenge sia, a?
This expression is commonly used in parts of Western Norway and roughly translates to “So long ago, huh?” The “a” at the end is a common feature of the dialect spoken in that region.
2. Lenge sia me sågast!
Found more commonly in certain areas of Eastern Norway, this phrase translates to “Long time since we saw each other!” The use of “me” instead of “vi” (we) is a distinct characteristic of the dialect spoken in these regions.
Tips for Usage
When using these expressions, it is important to consider the context and the level of familiarity with the person you are addressing. Here are some additional tips:
1. Non-Verbal Communication:
A smile, friendly tone, and open body language can go a long way in conveying warmth and friendliness, regardless of the specific phrase you choose to use.
2. Adjusting the Level of Warmth:
Based on your relationship with the person, you can modify the expressions to match the desired level of warmth. For example, adding an exclamation mark or emphasizing your excitement can increase the friendliness of the greeting.
Examples
To provide a better understanding of how to use these expressions, here are some examples:
Formal:
Person A: “Det var lenge siden sist! Hvordan har du det?”
Person B: “Ja, virkelig lenge siden. Jeg har det bra, takk!”
Informal:
Person A: “Lenge siden sist! Hvordan går det?”
Person B: “Ja, lenge siden! Alt bra her, takk!”
In Conclusion
Now you have a variety of expressions to choose from when saying “long time no see” in Norwegian, whether formally or informally. Remember to adapt your choice to the occasion and the relationship you share with the person you are addressing. Adding warmth, positivity, and friendliness to your greetings will help foster meaningful connections. Happy reconnecting!
