Gezelligheid

Gezelligheid (Dutch pronunciation: [ɣə'zɛləɣɦɛit]) is a Dutch abstract noun (adjective form gezellig) which, depending on context, can be translated as convivial, cosy, fun, quaint, or nice atmosphere, but can also connote belonging, time spent with loved ones, the fact of seeing a friend after a long absence, or general togetherness. The word is considered to be an example of untranslatability, and is one of the hardest words to translate to English.^[1] Some consider the word to encompass the heart of Dutch culture.^[2]

Etymology

The word derives from gezel which means companion or friend. During the Middle Ages a gezel was also the Dutch term for a journeyman, which in the Dutch guild system formed a group around a single Master craftsman; hence the added meaning of belonging.^[3]

Use

The adjective gezellig can be used in a wide variety of situations. For example;^[4]

• A room can be gezellig. (meaning cosy or inviting)
• A person can be gezellig. (meaning entertaining or pleasant)
• A party can be gezellig. (meaning fun)
• A visit to ones grandparents can be gezellig. (meaning togetherness)
• A set of curtains can be gezellig. (meaning pretty or nice).

Gezellig can also be used as an exclamation, in which can either carry the meanings described above or be used sarcastically or ironically.

Similar words

• The Danish word hygge [ˈhyɡə]) is very close in meaning. Etymologically, it is related to the Dutch word "heugen", meaning to make happy. However when used negatively marked differences become visible, as in Dutch ongezellig simply means not gezellig. In Danish however, uhyggelig means scary or nasty.

• The German term Gemütlichkeit (of which "gemoedelijkheid" is its Dutch cognate), invoking cosiness and comfort and which has also been adopted by the English language, covers some of the possible meanings of gezellig, but not all.

References