I'm learning dansk

venlighed — meaning in English: kindness

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for kindness
selvstændig
kaleidoskop
venlighed
vigtig
gåtur
Skip this question   
🎓
Learn Danish for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
Already have an account? Log in
neutral common
Usage
Native Danish speakers often use the word 'venlighed' in everyday conversations, especially when discussing good manners or when someone has done a friendly deed. For example, you might hear it in a coffee shop when someone thanks a barista for their kindness in helping them choose a drink.
Synonyms & nuances
'Venlighed' is akin to 'generosity' and 'sympathy', but it emphasizes a softer approach focused on friendly behavior rather than mere acts of giving. You would choose 'venlighed' when you want to convey warmth and approachability, especially in social contexts.
Culture
'Venlighed' stems from the Old Norse word 'vinr', meaning 'friend', which reflects how kindness is deeply ingrained in Scandinavian culture. In Denmark, acts of 'venlighed' are celebrated, especially during social gatherings, highlighting the value placed on community and support.
FAQ
Q.What is the meaning of 'venlighed' in English?
'Venlighed' translates to 'kindness' in English, encapsulating the idea of being friendly and considerate towards others.
Q.How do you use 'venlighed' in a sentence?
You can say, 'Hun viste stor venlighed ved at hjælpe mig,' which means 'She showed great kindness by helping me.' This illustrates the practical use of the word in expressing appreciation.
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'venlighed'?
One common mistake is to confuse 'venlighed' with 'ven', which means 'friend'. While 'ven' highlights personal relationships, 'venlighed' focuses on the action of being kind, making context crucial in usage.
Learn danish with Maspeak →
Danish Vocabulary