Last Update: 18 October 2023
Okay, y'all. Grab your fluffy socks and cozy blankets because it's time for a face-off between two of the coziest concepts on the planet: the Danish concept hygge and the Dutch gezelligheid. These two terms have taken the world by storm and while both nations claim they're untranslatable. But are they really? They do come awfully close to one another. Read on as I dig deeper into the cultural phenomenon – and maybe we'll even crown the champion of coziness.
What is hygge? 🇩🇰
There have been created shows about it, there have been written books about it, and there have been written thousands of blog posts about it (and yes, you're reading one of them right now). We're going to talk about hygge.
Oh, and trust me, as a Dane myself, I've heard a thousand people say "It's virtually impossible to translate hygge." And well, maybe it's true ... at least to a certain extent. Just like me, hygge hails from Denmark. It's a word and a cultural phenomenon that can be described as a feeling, an atmosphere, and a way of life. You could argue that it's more about an emotional state than any particular word or phrase. The closest approximation in English is probably "coziness" or "having a good time," but that alone doesn't quite capture the full essence of hygge.
Being all snuggled up on the couch with your dog. Going for a long walk with a group of friends by the ocean. Having after-work drinks with your colleagues at the next-door bar. Talking on the phone with your grandma. Those are all great examples of hygge. Got it? Well, there is more.
Hyggeligt vs. Hygge
"Hygge" is the more popularized Danish word and, linguistically speaking, it's the noun form. It is very rarely used in the definite form "hyggen". Unlike in Dutch, the concept can also easily be transformed into a verb "at hygge (sig)" and used in sentences such as "Hyggede du dig?". This would literally be "Did you cozy you?" but translates into something along the lines of "Did you have a good time?". Fun fact: we also use it as a sort of "goodbye greeting": Hyg dig! It's like saying goodbye and wishing someone to have fun, all in one.
"Hyggeligt" is the adjective derived from "hygge" and is used to describe something that embodies the qualities of hygge. It's used to characterize places, events, or experiences as cozy, comfortable, and enjoyable. For example, a hyggeligt room might have soft lighting, warm blankets, and comfortable furniture, creating a cozy and inviting ambiance. You get the drift.
What is gezelligheid? 🇳🇱
Just like hygge, it's hard to fully describe gezelligheid. It's a way of life that encompasses warmth, coziness, and the art of making ordinary moments feel extraordinary. Much like mentioned previously, it can describe a homey atmosphere with warm lighting, comfortable furniture, and an emphasis on personal touches and family photos. It can be social gatherings – birthday parties or small engaging conversations as you run into someone on the street. Or yes, it can be sharing drinks with friends (new as well as old) in a Dutch pub or a café, where wooden furniture would, without a doubt, level up the gezellig factor.
Gezellig vs. Gezelligheid
"Gezellig" is the adjective form, describing a place, gathering, or atmosphere as cozy, warm, and inviting. When a Dutch person calls a room "gezellig," it means it has a friendly and comfortable ambiance.
The noun form, "Gezelligheid," represents the concept itself. It is the feeling of coziness and contentment that arises from being in a warm and welcoming environment. Dutch people often aim to create Gezelligheid in their homes and gatherings.
Examples of hygge and gezelligheid
🇩🇰 Det var virkelig hyggeligt til festen i går aftes.
🇳🇱 Het was erg gezellig op het feest gisteravond.
🇺🇸 The party last night was very fun.
🇩🇰 Lad os drikke en kop kaffe sammen og hygge.
🇳🇱 Laten we samen een kopje koffie drinken en het gezellig maken.
🇺🇸 Let's have a cup of coffee together and make it cozy.
🇩🇰 Stuen ser virkelig hyggeligt ud med alle lysene.
🇳🇱 De woonkamer ziet er met al die kaarsen heel gezellig uit.
🇺🇸 The living room looks very cozy with all those candles.
🇩🇰 Det er altid hyggeligt at bruge tid med venner.
🇳🇱 Het is altijd zo gezellig om tijd met vrienden door te brengen.
🇺🇸 It's always so cozy to spend time with friends.
So how are hyggelig and gezellig then actually translated? 🇳🇱
Both hygge and gezelligheid can take on the meanings of "conviviality," "coziness," "warm and cozy," or even "enjoyable social interaction." It frequently characterizes harmonious and relaxed social settings in which everyone experiences a happy and comfortable atmosphere. They have a cheerfuk enthusiasm to them and the same time, complete calmness.
Hyggeligt is all about creating a cozy atmosphere with candles, warm blankets, and comfy furniture. It's about slowing down and appreciating the simple things in life. You might even bake some delicious pastries to enjoy with friends. Gezellig is equally cozy, focusing on the ambiance of a room and making it inviting and comfortable. Think soft lighting, plush cushions, and good conversation. It's all about making your space gezellig, whether it's a café, living room, or garden.
Still not entirely clear? I'm afraid it might stay that way.
Dutch and Danish: So much in common
So the Dutch and Danish are the only languages that have this word? Well, you might be surprised to know that we have a lot of things in common. Personally, I knew we were somewhat, but living in the Netherlands for several years really opened my eyes to how much we're alike.
Linguistic Similarities 🤝
Dutch and Danish languages both belong to the Germanic language family. So trust me when I say that "gezellig" and "hyggelig" are not the only similarities. When doing Dutch to Danish translation, there are plenty of examples like this. In general, both languages are characterized by their relatively simple and direct grammar compared to languages like German. The grammar structure is more straightforward – just like how we like to communicate.
Directness in Communication 🗣️
Both Dutch and Danish people are known for their straightforward and honest communication styles. They value clear and open dialogue, which is often perceived as a sign of respect. We say what we mean and we mean what we say. Simple as that. This common trait in their communication styles strengthens their cultural ties.
Breakfast Tradition Dipped in Chocolate 🍫
The concept of "chocolate sprinkles for breakfast on bread" is a unique and beloved tradition in both Dutch and Danish cultures. Known as "hagelslag" in Dutch and "pålægschokolade" in Danish, this practice involves spreading chocolate sprinkles on a slice of buttered bread. It's a sweet and indulgent start to the day that showcases the cultural appreciation for simple pleasures.
Love for All Things Biking 🚲
The Netherlands and Denmark are renowned as two of the most bike-friendly nations in the world. Bicycles are an integral part of daily life, with extensive networks of cycling lanes and paths in cities and towns. The love for cycling is deeply ingrained in both cultures, making them iconic "bike nations." The sight of bikes everywhere is a shared cultural characteristic that promotes an active and sustainable lifestyle.
Windmills and Flat Landscape 💨
Windmills are iconic symbols of both Dutch and Danish landscapes. Maybe because both countries are relatively flat – and with strong winds. These historic structures have played essential roles in agriculture, industry, and energy production for centuries. Their prominence in the landscapes of both countries reflects their shared history as sea-faring nations, using wind power for various practical purposes.
Sea Nations and Water 🌊
Both the Netherlands and Denmark have strong connections to the sea, with coastlines stretching along the North Sea. Seafood, fishing, and maritime traditions hold significant cultural importance in both countries. Their shared proximity to water has influenced their cultural identities and traditions, including sailing, fishing, and water-related sports.
Summing it all up
You could say that while our directness might come off as harsh to some, the comparison of Danish hygge and Dutch gezelligheid reveals the shared appreciation for coziness, warmth, and togetherness. Two seemingly untranslatable concepts in English seem to make perfect sense when compared to one another. These terms are more about a feeling and an atmosphere than simple words, encapsulating the art of making everyday moments extraordinary.
As to crowning which one ends up being the champion of cozy? Well, I will let that be up to you guys.
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