Scandi Words (No, not Grinds)

[bearbait]

We've all come across the odd Scandi word being adopted into English usage such as hygge.

I came across another recently that, I think, many of us chaps and chapesses would say "Oh yes please! In our dreams.". And that word is kalsarikännit. This apparently means 'drinking beer on your own at home in your underwear with no intention of going out'.

So succinct.

 

[Janne]

Finnish.
Finland is not a Scandinavian country. Nordic yes. If I may be pedantic!

We coming from those countries find it amusing when foreigners try to understand the meaning of certain expressions, it is very difficult. These expressions are intimately connected to the psyche and culture. It is incredibly difficult to give a meaningful translation.
Hygge. Lagom. Sisu. Fredags mys.

If you use the word 'hygge' to a Swede, be prepared to get a funny look, as the word 'hygge' means a clearcut part of forest, a clearing.


Quite a few people here use foreign words in the wrong meaning as it means in the original language, or use a foreign word plus the translation.

I should add that we are very flattered by you trying to embrace the nice parts of our culture and heritage!
So please go and buy a packet or two of Vasa rye bread, a pack of Havarti and Jarlsberg plus a bottle of Finlandia and enjoy!

 

[daveO]

drinking beer on your own at home in your underwear with no intention of going out'

In Wales we have a word that means something similar: 'Wednesdays'