Meaning
Being kind costs nothing.
Cultural Background
In Finland, this phrase is used to combat the stereotype of the 'silent Finn'. It encourages people to be more open. In many Arab cultures, a smile is considered an act of charity (sadaqah). A smile is a fundamental part of social interaction and is expected in almost all encounters. Germans value efficiency, so this phrase is often used to show that kindness is an efficient way to improve a situation.
Practice the 'y'
The 'y' in 'hymy' is tricky. Practice saying 'ee' and then rounding your lips.
Don't overdo it
In Finland, a smile is meaningful. Don't feel like you have to smile constantly to be polite.
Meaning
Being kind costs nothing.
Practice the 'y'
The 'y' in 'hymy' is tricky. Practice saying 'ee' and then rounding your lips.
Don't overdo it
In Finland, a smile is meaningful. Don't feel like you have to smile constantly to be polite.
Use it as a bridge
If you are stuck in a conversation, use this phrase to lighten the mood.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing word.
Hymy on ________.
'Ilmainen' is the correct word for 'free'.
Which sentence is correct?
Choose the correct proverb.
'Hymy on ilmainen' is the standard proverb.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Olen niin surullinen. B: ________.
This is the appropriate response to cheer someone up.
Match the situation to the phrase.
You want to encourage a friend to smile. What do you say?
It is the perfect phrase for encouragement.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesHymy on ________.
'Ilmainen' is the correct word for 'free'.
Choose the correct proverb.
'Hymy on ilmainen' is the standard proverb.
A: Olen niin surullinen. B: ________.
This is the appropriate response to cheer someone up.
You want to encourage a friend to smile. What do you say?
It is the perfect phrase for encouragement.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
12 questionsNo, it is not rude. Finns value authenticity over constant smiling.
Only if the interviewer is very friendly. Otherwise, keep it professional.
Yes, 'ilmainen' is the standard word for 'free of charge'.
That is a fundamental rule of the Finnish language.
You could, but it sounds like you are saying a smile is 'cheap' (low quality). Stick to 'ilmainen'.
Yes, it is often used in schools.
No, it is a secular proverb.
Yes, it is very common in texts.
No, it is very short and easy to remember.
That's okay! The proverb says the smile is free, not that it guarantees a return.
No, it is too informal for formal correspondence.
Yes, it appears in many children's songs.
Related Phrases
Hymyile ja maailma hymyilee kanssasi
builds onSmile and the world smiles with you.
Ystävällisyys ei maksa mitään
synonymKindness costs nothing.
Nauraa sydämensä pohjasta
similarTo laugh from the bottom of one's heart.
Olla hyvällä tuulella
similarTo be in a good mood.
