Meaning
Feeling honored.
Cultural Background
Danes value 'lighed' (equality), so this phrase is one of the few times hierarchy is openly acknowledged. In Greenlandic culture, respect for elders and community leaders is paramount; this phrase is often used in translated formal speeches. In Danish business, 'ære' is linked to 'troværdighed' (trustworthiness). Being 'æret' means you are trusted. Danish universities are quite formal during 'doktorforsvar' (PhD defenses), where this phrase is mandatory.
The 'Dem' Connection
When using this phrase with a person, always consider if you should use the formal 'De/Dem' instead of 'du/dig'.
Don't Overuse
If you use it for everything, you'll sound like you're practicing for a play rather than speaking naturally.
Meaning
Feeling honored.
The 'Dem' Connection
When using this phrase with a person, always consider if you should use the formal 'De/Dem' instead of 'du/dig'.
Don't Overuse
If you use it for everything, you'll sound like you're practicing for a play rather than speaking naturally.
Eye Contact
When saying this, maintain steady eye contact. It reinforces the sincerity of the 'honor'.
Written Form
This is a great phrase to use in the opening or closing of a formal cover letter for a job.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing words to complete the formal phrase.
Det er ___ stor ___ at møde dig.
'Ære' is an en-word and we use the indefinite form in this phrase.
In which situation is 'Det er en stor ære' most appropriate?
Choose the correct scenario:
This phrase is reserved for high-formality, high-respect situations.
Complete the dialogue with the most respectful response.
Chef: 'Vi vil gerne give dig prisen for Årets Medarbejder.' Dig: '___'
This is the standard way to accept a prestigious award.
Which variation is also correct and slightly more personal?
Select the correct alternative:
Adding 'mig' (to me) is a common, slightly more formal/personal variation.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
When to use 'Det er en stor ære'
Formal
- • Awards
- • Royal meetings
- • Job promotions
Social
- • Weddings
- • Anniversaries
- • Speeches
Avoid
- • Grocery store
- • Buying coffee
- • Casual texts
Practice Bank
4 exercisesDet er ___ stor ___ at møde dig.
'Ære' is an en-word and we use the indefinite form in this phrase.
Choose the correct scenario:
This phrase is reserved for high-formality, high-respect situations.
Chef: 'Vi vil gerne give dig prisen for Årets Medarbejder.' Dig: '___'
This is the standard way to accept a prestigious award.
Select the correct alternative:
Adding 'mig' (to me) is a common, slightly more formal/personal variation.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes, if they have just given you a promotion or a significant new responsibility. It shows respect.
No, it is still very much in use for formal occasions, though young people use it less in daily life.
'Ære' is more about formal recognition and standing, while 'respekt' is a general feeling of admiration.
Yes, Danes often use formal language ironically to be funny, but be careful with your tone!
It is common gender: 'en ære'.
Simply change the verb to past tense: 'Det var en stor ære'.
Yes, it's a very common way for the father of the bride or the best man to start a speech.
Yes, as a short exclamation when receiving something, it works perfectly.
No, while it has historical religious ties, today it is purely a social/secular expression of respect.
'Skam' (shame) or 'vanære' (dishonor).
Related Phrases
Jeg er beæret
similarI am honored
Æret være hans minde
specialized formHonored be his memory
På ære og samvittighed
builds onOn my honor and conscience
En æressag
relatedA matter of honor
At gøre nogen ære
relatedTo do someone proud
