meeldiv tutvuda
The English phrase "pleased to meet you" is expressed in Estonian as meeldiv tutvuda. Wiktionary also lists väga rõõmustav.
Meaning: polite formula used when being introduced to somebody (phrase)
Ways to say it
| Estonian |
|---|
| meeldiv tutvuda |
| väga rõõmustav |
These expressions are used as polite formulas during introductions.
Which one should you use?
The form meeldiv tutvuda is a standard way to say "pleased to meet you". Another way to express this is väga rõõmustav. For a slightly more formal alternative, you may use the noun-based phrase Rõõm on tutvuda!, which literally translates to "Pleasure is to meet!"
How does it change in a sentence?
The phrase Rõõm on tutvuda! uses a noun-based structure and is a common, slightly more formal way to handle introductions.
Did you know?
- The word meeldiv comes from the root meel, which means 'mind' or 'soul'. To find something pleasant in Estonian is literally to find it 'agreeable to the mind'.
- While English speakers often use enthusiastic language, the Estonian phrase meeldiv tutvuda is best paired with a simple nod. Using too much verbal energy or excessive small talk can actually feel culturally out of place.
- The word tutvuda is a reciprocal verb, which means the grammar itself emphasizes that the act of meeting is a mutual exchange between two people rather than one person meeting another.
Examples in context
- Rõõm teid näha, Mart! Mina olen Laura.Pleased to meet you, Mart! I'm Laura.
- Meeldiv tutvuda.Pleased to meet you.
- Tere, meeldiv tutvuda!Hello, nice to meet you!
Example conversation
Liis and Andres are introduced by a mutual friend at a party.
- LiisTere, ma olen Liis. Meeldiv tutvuda!Hello, I am Liis. Pleased to meet you!
- AndresTere, Liis! Mina olen Andres.Hello, Liis! I am Andres.
- LiisKuidas läheb, Andres?How is it going, Andres?
- AndresHästi, aitäh!Well, thank you!
Sources
- Wiktionary, “pleased to meet you” translations and entries meeldiv tutvuda, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
