Signification
Someone you have known for a long time.
Contexte culturel
Estonians celebrate 'Sõbrapäev' (Friend's Day) on February 14th instead of Valentine's Day. It's the peak time to send cards to a 'vana sõber'. The sauna is where 'vanad sõbrad' gather to talk about life. It is considered a sacred space for honest conversation between long-time companions. Student corporations (korporatsioonid) in Tartu are breeding grounds for 'vanad sõbrad'. These bonds often last 50+ years and define one's social circle. In small villages, a 'vana sõber' might also be a 'vana naaber' (old neighbor). The lines between friendship and neighborly duty are often blurred.
The 'õ' factor
Mastering the 'õ' in 'sõber' is the fastest way to sound like a native. Practice by saying 'o' and slowly pulling your lips back into a smile.
Don't over-decline
In the comitative case (with), only the noun gets the '-ga' ending. It's 'vana sõbraga', not 'vanaga sõbraga'.
Signification
Someone you have known for a long time.
The 'õ' factor
Mastering the 'õ' in 'sõber' is the fastest way to sound like a native. Practice by saying 'o' and slowly pulling your lips back into a smile.
Don't over-decline
In the comitative case (with), only the noun gets the '-ga' ending. It's 'vana sõbraga', not 'vanaga sõbraga'.
The 'Tuttav' Rule
If you've known someone for 10 years but only talk once a year, call them an 'ammune tuttav' to be culturally accurate.
Greeting power
Using 'Tere, vana sõber!' can instantly break the ice with an Estonian you haven't seen in a while.
Teste-toi
Fill in the correct form of 'vana sõber' (Partitive case).
Ma nägin eile tänaval oma ____.
The verb 'nägema' (to see) requires the partitive case for the object. 'Vana' and 'sõpra' are the correct forms.
Which sentence means 'We have known each other for a long time'?
Vali õige lause:
'Vanad sõbrad' is the plural form of 'vana sõber', meaning long-time friends.
Complete the dialogue with the most natural greeting.
Peeter: 'Tere, ____! Pole sind ammu näinud!' Mari: 'Tere, Peeter! Kuidas läheb?'
When you haven't seen someone in a long time, 'vana sõber' is the most natural and warm greeting.
Match the phrase to the situation.
Situation: You are introducing your childhood friend to your boss.
'Vana sõber' is neutral and polite enough for a professional introduction while showing history.
🎉 Score : /4
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
4 exercicesMa nägin eile tänaval oma ____.
The verb 'nägema' (to see) requires the partitive case for the object. 'Vana' and 'sõpra' are the correct forms.
Vali õige lause:
'Vanad sõbrad' is the plural form of 'vana sõber', meaning long-time friends.
Peeter: 'Tere, ____! Pole sind ammu näinud!' Mari: 'Tere, Peeter! Kuidas läheb?'
When you haven't seen someone in a long time, 'vana sõber' is the most natural and warm greeting.
Situation: You are introducing your childhood friend to your boss.
'Vana sõber' is neutral and polite enough for a professional introduction while showing history.
🎉 Score : /4
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsYes! Estonian has no grammatical gender. 'Sõber' works for everyone.
Not at all. In this context, it's a compliment to the strength of the bond.
Usually at least 5-10 years, or since a major life milestone like school.
The plural is 'vanad sõbrad'.
Only if they were your friend for a long time before you started dating. Otherwise, use 'elukaaslane'.
Yes, 'vana jope' (old jacket) is a very common slang term for an old friend.
Use 'minu kõige vanem sõber'.
Yes, it's a very warm way to start an email to someone you haven't contacted in a while.
Usually no. It refers to the age of the friendship, not the person.
It will sound like a joke or you will sound very confused about time.
Expressions liées
lapsepõlvesõber
specialized formChildhood friend
südamesõber
similarBosom friend / Best friend
ammune tuttav
contrastLong-time acquaintance
võitluskaaslane
builds onComrade-in-arms
perekonnasõber
similarFamily friend
