Making Small Talk
Use these phrases to greet people, chat about everyday topics like the weather or weekend, and politely end a conversation.
Key Phrases
Heisann, alt bra?
casualHey there, everything good?
A very common and friendly way to greet coworkers or friends.
Hei! Hvordan går det?
neutralHi! How is it going?
The standard everyday greeting.
God morgen. Hvordan har du det i dag?
politeGood morning. How are you today?
A slightly more formal greeting, good for older acquaintances or service staff.
Takk, bare bra. Og med deg?
neutralThanks, just fine. And you?
The standard response in Norway, even if you are just having an okay day.
Så fint vær vi har i dag!
casualSuch nice weather we have today!
Norwegians love discussing the weather when the sun is out.
Det er fint vær i dag, ikke sant?
neutralThe weather is nice today, isn't it?
Adding 'ikke sant' (right/isn't it) invites the other person to agree.
Hva skjer i helgen?
casualWhat is happening this weekend?
A relaxed way to ask friends or close colleagues about their plans.
Hva skal du gjøre i helgen?
neutralWhat are you going to do this weekend?
The classic Friday small talk question in the office.
Hva jobber du med?
neutralWhat do you do for work?
Literally 'What do you work with?', used to ask about someone's profession.
Å ja? Så spennende!
neutralOh yeah? How exciting!
A polite way to react and keep the conversation going.
Jeg stikker nå. God helg!
casualI am taking off now. Have a good weekend!
Very informal; use when leaving work on a Friday.
Jeg må gå nå. Ha en fin dag!
neutralI have to go now. Have a nice day!
A polite and clear way to excuse yourself from a chat.