hurra
/hɵˈrɑː/
The Swedish word for 'yay' is hurra.
hurra is an expression of happiness.
Meaning: an expression of happiness (intj)
Which one should you use?
While hurra is the base form, it is often used as a standalone exclamation with an exclamation mark to express celebration.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word hurra also functions as a verb meaning 'to cheer'.
How do you pronounce it?
/hɵˈrɑː/
Did you know?
- The origin of 'hurra' is uncertain, though some linguists suggest it may be related to the German word 'hurren', which means 'to hasten'.
- In a formal Swedish setting, such as a speech, one might hear a command to 'hurra för…' followed by a person's name, which is a specific ritualized way to show support.
- Swedish children often use hurra during traditional games, but it is rarely used as a sarcastic 'yay' in the way English speakers might.
Examples in context
- Jag fick jobbet!I got the job!
- Fantastiskt! Jag är så glad för din skull!Fantastic! I'm so happy for you!
- Jippi! Det var ju helt otroligt!Yay! That's absolutely incredible!
- Hurra för Sverige!Hooray for Sweden!
- Hurra, vi vann matchen!Yay, we won the match!
- Hurra, det är fredag!Yay, it is Friday!
- Hon skrek hurra av glädje.She shouted hurra with joy.
Example conversation
Linnea and Oscar are celebrating the end of a school week.
- LinneaNu är det helg!Now it is the weekend!
- OscarHurra, äntligen!Yay, finally!
- LinneaSka vi gå på bio?Shall we go to the cinema?
- OscarJa, det låter jätteskönt.Yes, that sounds great.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry hurra, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries hurra, CC BY-SA 4.0.
