Sveiki — meaning in English: Hello

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

Guess the translation for Hello

Sveiki

konflikts

piedāvāt

skumjš

darījums

Skip this question

🎓

Learn Latvian for free

Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.

Start learning →

Already have an account? Log in

informal very common

Usage

Native speakers often use 'Sveiki' in casual greetings among friends or family, as well as when meeting acquaintances in social settings. You might hear it at a café in Riga or during a friendly conversation at a local market.

Synonyms & nuances

'Sveiki' is often compared to 'Labdien,' which means 'Good day' and is more formal. While 'Sveiki' is used among friends and in relaxed scenarios, 'Labdien' might be more appropriate in a professional setting or when addressing someone you don't know well.

Culture

'Sveiki' is derived from the Latvian root 'sveiks,' which means 'healthy' or 'well.' This greeting carries a connotation of wishing good health upon the person you are addressing, reflecting the importance of well-being in Latvian culture. Interestingly, it highlights how greetings can extend beyond mere politeness to convey heartfelt sentiments.

FAQ

Q.What does 'Sveiki' mean in English?

'Sveiki' means 'Hello' in English and is used as a friendly greeting in informal contexts.

Q.How do I respond to 'Sveiki'?

You can simply respond with 'Sveiki!' back, as it's a reciprocal greeting. Alternatively, you can add a friendly question like 'Kā iet?' which means 'How are you?'

Q.Is 'Sveiki' used in formal situations?

'Sveiki' is generally informal and not suitable for formal occasions. In professional settings, it's better to use 'Labdien' for a more respectful tone.

Learn latvian with Maspeak →

Latvian Vocabulary