“Hygge” – an insigt into Danish culture

Danish "hygge" in the summerhouse

“Hygge” is a very essential issue in Danish culture. There is no literal translation of the word, but when something is “hyggeligt” it is definitely comfortable and cosy.

Different cultures obviously have different views on what is cosy and comfortable – and in this way the Danish definition is rather unique.

“Hygge” is also often associated with the female gender and referred to when women meet or there are women among the people who meet. It is more likely to hear men say that it was fun to meet a friend than “hyggeligt”.

So what does Danish “hygge” entail. Well a lot of times it involves food – whether this being snack food or dinner or cakes. Generally we enjoy ourselves and feel cosy when we eat. It also covers things like: candles, dim light, fireplace, intimate atmosphere (anywhere) and a lot of other things (add more yourself :-))

So when you visit Denmark just remember that one of the main things for us is that a social gathering has to be “hyggelig”.

“Hygge” (written like this is also slang for goodbye).