How to Say Hi in Norwegian: Complete Greeting Guide

If you’re wondering how to say hi in Norwegian, the answer is simple: just say “Hei!” Pronounced like the English word hi, That’s the most common and versatile greeting you’ll hear across Norway. But there’s a lot more to greetings in Norwegian than just that—let’s dive deeper into the world of Norwegian hellos!

Why Learning Norwegian Greetings Matters

Greeting someone in their native language builds instant connection. Norwegians appreciate friendliness but value personal space—so using the right phrase at the right time shows cultural awareness and respect.

Whether you’re traveling, working, or learning Norwegian online, understanding how to say hi, hello, or even good day will make every interaction smoother.

🇳🇴 Most Common Ways to Say Hi in Norwegian

Let’s begin with the most frequently used greetings you’ll hear from Oslo to Tromsø:

1. Hei – “Hi”

• ✅ Most universal greeting
• Used in casual and semi-formal situations
• Works for anyone, whether you know them or not

2. Heisann – “Hey there!”

• Friendly and slightly enthusiastic
• Common if you run into someone by surprise

3. Hei hei – “Hi hi!”

• Double hello; cute and informal
• Used with friends, family, and children

4. Hei på deg – “Hi to you”

• Charming and rhyming greeting
• Implies warmth or familiarity

5. Hei der / Hei du – “Hi there” / “Hi you”

• Used to get someone’s attention or express recognition

6. Hallo – “Hello”

• Less common in person
• Typically used on the phone

7. Halla – Slang for “Hallo”

• Informal and trendy
• Avoid in professional settings

🕰️ Time-Specific Greetings in Norwegian

When you’re not sure what to say, go by the time of day:

💡Pronunciation Tip: The “d” in “God” is often silent, so it sounds like “goo.”

👋 How Norwegians Greet Each Other

The typical greeting ritual goes like this:

1. Hei!
2. Followed by: Hvordan går det? (How are you?)
3. Answer: Bra, og du? (Good, and you?)

Norwegians are famously polite but also private. A handshake is common. Hugs and kisses? Not unless you’re close friends or family.

🙋 Introductions in Norwegian

Meeting someone for the first time? Here are phrases you’ll want to remember:

• God dag. Mitt navn er … – Good day. My name is…
• Hei, jeg heter … – Hi, I’m…

Honorifics like Mr., Mrs., or Ms. (Herr, Fru, Frøken) are quite rarely used. Norwegians go straight to first names.

❌ Greeting Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t go for a cheek kiss. It’s awkward in Norway.
• Don’t overdo formality. Norwegians prefer relaxed conversation.
• Don’t expect small talk—Norwegians get to the point fast.

👋 Saying Goodbye in Norwegian

Ending a conversation? Try these:

🎓 Bonus Vocabulary: Greeting Responses

• Bra! – Good!
• Ikke så bra – Not so good
• Kjempebra! – Super good!
• Fantastisk! – Fantastic!

📚 Practice Dialogues

Example 1: Informal

A: Hei hei!
B: Hei! Hvordan går det?
A: Bra, og du?

Example 2: Formal

A: God dag. Mitt navn er Maria.
B: Hyggelig å møte deg, Maria. Jeg heter Lars.

🎯 FAQs: How to Say Hi in Norwegian

Q: What’s the most common way to say hi in Norway?
A: “Hei” – it’s short, sweet, and universally used across informal and semi-formal situations.

Q: Do Norwegians use handshakes?
A: Yes, handshakes are the norm when meeting someone, especially in formal or first-time settings.

Q: Can I use “Hallo” instead of “Hei”?
A: You can, but “Hallo” is more commonly used when answering the phone. Stick to “Hei” in person.

Q: What should I say to sound polite in a shop or hotel?
A: “God dag” or “Hei” with a smile will do the trick. Norwegians value politeness without being overly formal.

Q: How do you greet someone in Norway?
A: The go-to greeting is “Hei!” followed by a handshake or a nod. In formal situations, “God dag” is appropriate.

Q: Why do Norwegians say “hei hei”?
A: “Hei hei” is a cheerful and affectionate double greeting, often used among friends, family, or to sound especially friendly.

Q: Do Norwegians say “hej”?
A: No, “hej” is the Swedish spelling. Norwegians use “hei,” although it sounds quite similar when spoken.

Q: Does “takk” mean please in Norwegian?
A: No, “takk” means “thank you.” Norwegian doesn’t have a direct translation for “please” — politeness is shown through tone and phrasing.

Q: Is it “takk” or “tack”?
A: In Norwegian, it’s “takk.” “Tack” is the Swedish equivalent. Both mean “thanks,” but they belong to different languages.

Q: Why do Norwegians say “oi”?
A: “Oi” is a common Norwegian exclamation used to express surprise, concern, or to get someone’s attention — similar to “oh!” or “whoa!” in English.

🧠 Final Tips to Sound Like a Local

• Listen to real-life Norwegian conversations on YouTube or TikTok.
• Practice greetings in context—like when entering a room or answering the phone.
• Don’t overthink—start with “Hei” and you’re already halfway there!

📌 TL;DR: How to Say Hi in Norwegian

Ha det bra! Vi ses!

Ready to greet Norwegians with confidence? Start practicing these expressions today and you’ll make a great first impression—wherever in Norway you go.