Welcome! Are you ready to delve into the enchanting world of the Romansh language? Whether you’re planning a trip to the lovely canton of Graubünden in Switzerland or simply interested in the linguistic richness of this incredible Romance language, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll explore various ways to say “welcome” in Romansh, covering both formal and informal expressions. So, let’s get started!
Table of Contents
The Formal Welcome
If you’re looking to extend a formal welcome in Romansh, here are some phrases to make your guests feel truly honored:
- Bainvegnì. – Welcome. (Standard Romansh)
- Curunadusch. – Welcome. (Sursilvan dialect)
- Faciltà. – Welcome. (Sutsilvan dialect)
The Informal Welcome
When you want to greet friends, family, or people you’re familiar with in a more relaxed and friendly manner, try these informal expressions:
- Bainvgnüs etsch. – Welcome. (Standard Romansh)
- Beinvegni a tè. – Welcome to you. (Sursilvan dialect)
- Bon di bi. – Good day to you. (Sutsilvan dialect)
Regional Variations
While the Romansh language has several regional dialects, the formal and informal expressions previously mentioned will generally be understood throughout the canton of Graubünden. However, let’s take a quick look at a few regional variations:
Surmiran dialect:
The Surmiran dialect is spoken in the Surmeir valley and includes towns like Savognin and Bivio. While the phrases we’ve covered earlier should suffice, if you wish to immerse yourself in this specific regional variation, you can use:
“Grondi.” – Welcome. (Surmiran dialect)
Putèr dialect:
The Putèr dialect is spoken in the Engadine valley and includes areas such as Samedan and St. Moritz. You can use the phrases we’ve already covered, or add the following for greater authenticity:
“Stai mir.” – Welcome. (Putèr dialect)
Tips and Examples
Now that we’ve covered the various ways to say “welcome” in Romansh, here are some tips and examples to help you use these expressions confidently:
1. Tone and Gesture:
Remember, welcoming someone is not just about the words you use but also your tone of voice and body language. A warm smile and a friendly hand gesture can make your welcome more genuinely heartfelt.
2. Casual and Inviting Spaces:
If you’re welcoming guests into your home or a public space, creating a cozy and inviting environment can enhance the overall feeling of welcome and hospitality.
3. Welcoming Phrases:
You can pair the phrases with additional expressions to further emphasize your warm welcome. Consider these examples:
- Bainvegnì. Co tai? – Welcome. How are you?
- Bainvgnüs etsch. Adina a plaschair. – Welcome. Always a pleasure.
- Curunadusch. Havegl ad esser qua. – Welcome. Nice to have you here.
4. Enhancing your Vocabulary:
Learning a few additional Romansh phrases can be a fun way to connect with locals and show your genuine interest. Consider picking up simple greetings like “Hello” (Sali), “How are you?” (Co teis?), and “Thank you” (Grazia).
With these tips and examples, you’re now well-equipped to welcome guests in Romansh with authenticity and warmth.
Final Words
We’ve reached the end of our comprehensive guide on how to say “welcome” in Romansh. Whether you choose to use the formal variations or embrace the informal and regional expressions, your effort to greet others in their native language will undoubtedly be appreciated. So go forth, spread warmth, and make the most of your Romansh-speaking experiences. Bainvegnì!
