The Danish Concept of Hygge

Anna Bog uses the Danish word hygge and its derivatives frequently in her written record. Since there is no adequate equivalent in English, we present here an essay written for us by Hans Christian Bogstad, a Danish resident of Belgium:

"On Hygge"

Hygge (noun) - coziness, well-being, warmth . . .

Hyggelig (adjective) - cozy, snug, friendly . . .

The above translations of two Danish words are rather inadequate, and some additional explanations are required.

If a home is described as hyggelig, it means that it is equipped with well-chosen furniture, ornaments, flowers, etc. (not necessarily expensive), and that it gives its owners and visitors a general feeling of warmth, comfort and well-being.

If we spend a hyggelig evening with our family or friends, it means that we find ourselves in a pleasant environment (in a private home or restaurant), with a small group of people whose company we enjoy, sharing anything from a cup of coffee or a drink to an elaborate meal. Large parties cannot usually be described as hyggelig.

It is important to note that there is absolutely no relationship between hygge and wealth or budget. Hygge is created by people, not by money. Danish people have a tradition for doing this extremely well, and we are certainly very proud of it.

These words, and the ideas they cover, are so important to the Danes that we sometimes tend to believe that we have a monopoly on hygge, as no other language seems to have one single word that covers the entire concept.

Having lived most of my life outside Denmark, I am happy to report that I have met numerous forms of hygge in many different cultures. They just do not seem to have a word for it!

Hans Christian Bogstad
Belgium, February 3, 2005