slapp av
The English phrase 'relax' is translated into Norwegian as slapp av.
The phrase slapp av is a common and versatile way to express the idea of resting or becoming relieved of stress.
Meaning: (intransitive) to rest and become relieved of stress (verb)
What does it mean word for word?
The verb is a phrasal verb where slappe means to loosen or slack and the particle av means off, literally meaning 'to loosen off'.
How does it change in a sentence?
The verb changes based on how it is used in a sentence. The infinitive form is å slappe av, the present tense is slapper av (relaxes / is relaxing) and the imperative form used for commands is slapp av.
Did you know?
- While slapp av is the standard translation for 'relax', Norwegians often use the word kos or the verb kose seg to describe a more active, cozy kind of relaxation involving warmth and comfort.
- The word slapp likely entered the Norwegian language via Middle Low German, reflecting the heavy influence of Hanseatic traders on Nordic languages during the Middle Ages.
- Because slapp av literally translates to 'loosen off', using it to tell someone to 'calm down' during an argument can sometimes sound condescending, as if you are telling them to 'loosen up' or stop being so tense.
Examples in context
- Slapp av i handa.Relax your hand.This sentence shows how to use slapp av to suggest relaxing a specific body part.Tatoeba #12496806 by Just_Some_Guy, translation #10053283 by ddnktr
- Hør på denne musikken og slapp av.Listen to this music and relax.This sentence uses slapp av as an instruction to relax while listening to music.Tatoeba #12576220 by elithyia, translation #60211 by CM
- Slapp av. Det er berre ei fugleskremsle.Relax, it's just a scarecrow.This sentence uses slapp av as a command to calm down.Tatoeba #12485199 by Just_Some_Guy, translation #522152 by FeuDRenais
- Vær så snill, slapp av litt.Please, relax a bit.
- 5 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Jakob is stressed about a project and Emma tries to calm him down.
- JakobJeg er så stresset for denne oppgaven!I am so stressed about this assignment!
- EmmaDu må bare slapp av litt, Jakob.You just have to relax a bit, Jakob.
- JakobJeg klarer ikke å tenke på noe annet.I can't think about anything else.
- EmmaTa en pause og slapp av i kveld.Take a break and relax tonight.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries av, slapp, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
