pas på dig selv
The English phrase "take care" can be translated into Danish as pas på dig selv.
The phrase is used as an interjection during a goodbye. While it functions as a general way to say goodbye, it often carries a slightly more sincere or warm tone than a simple hej hej. You may also see the related phrase Husk at passe på dig selv, which means "Remember to take care of yourself".
Meaning: good-bye (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, pas på dig selv translates to "watch out for yourself" or "look after yourself".
How does it change in a sentence?
The form pas på dig selv is used when speaking to one person in an informal or familiar setting.
Did you know?
- If you say pas på! to a Danish person without adding the rest of the phrase, you are not saying 'take care', but rather 'watch out!' as a warning of immediate danger.
- The phrase pas på dig selv is often used in Denmark when someone is embarking on a journey or facing a difficult period, rather than as a routine daily exit.
- The word selv is a linguistic 'twin' to the English 'self', as both derive from the same Proto-Germanic root.
Examples in context
- Du skal huske at være forsigtig, når du kører bil.You should remember to be careful when driving.
- Hej, og pas på dig selv.Bye, and take care of yourself.
- Vi ses, pas på dig selv.See you, take care of yourself.
Example conversation
Mikkel and Freja are saying goodbye at the train station.
- MikkelDet var hyggeligt at se dig, Freja.It was nice to see you, Freja.
- FrejaJa, tak for i dag, Mikkel.Yes, thanks for today, Mikkel.
- MikkelPas på dig selv.Take care of yourself.
- FrejaDet vil jeg, tak.I will, thanks.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries pas, på, selv, CC BY-SA 4.0.
