Meaning
Polite phrase when meeting someone for the first time.
Cultural Background
Latvians value personal space and may seem reserved at first. A phrase like 'Priecājos iepazīties' is the formal 'key' that opens the door to a more personal relationship. In Latvian business, punctuality and politeness are paramount. Saying 'Priecājos iepazīties' while handing over a business card is a sign of high professional etiquette. Younger Latvians are more informal and might use the shortened 'Prieks!' or even the English 'Nice to meet you' in international groups, but the Latvian version is always respected. In the countryside, people might be more formal. Using the full phrase 'Priecājos iepazīties' shows respect for traditional manners.
The Eye Contact Rule
In Latvia, saying this without looking the person in the eye can seem insincere. Lock eyes for a second!
Don't Repeat It
Only use this the very first time you meet. If you see them again an hour later, just say 'Sveiki!'.
Meaning
Polite phrase when meeting someone for the first time.
The Eye Contact Rule
In Latvia, saying this without looking the person in the eye can seem insincere. Lock eyes for a second!
Don't Repeat It
Only use this the very first time you meet. If you see them again an hour later, just say 'Sveiki!'.
Add a Name
Adding the person's name at the end ('Priecājos iepazīties, Līga!') makes you sound much more fluent and friendly.
Handshake Timing
Start the handshake as you begin the phrase and release just as you finish it.
Test Yourself
Choose the most natural response to: 'Sveiki, mans vārds ir Andris.'
Sveiki, mans vārds ir Andris.
'Priecājos iepazīties!' is the standard polite response to an introduction.
Fill in the missing reflexive ending for the verb 'priecāties'.
Es priecāj__ iepazīties!
The first person singular present reflexive ending is '-os'.
Match the phrase to the correct situation.
Situation: You are meeting your new boss for the first time.
This is the most appropriate polite greeting for a first professional meeting.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Labdien! Mani sauc Anna. B: Labdien, Anna! Es esmu Juris. A: ___________
After names are exchanged, the next logical step is 'Priecājos iepazīties!'.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Formality Levels
Practice Bank
4 exercisesSveiki, mans vārds ir Andris.
'Priecājos iepazīties!' is the standard polite response to an introduction.
Es priecāj__ iepazīties!
The first person singular present reflexive ending is '-os'.
Situation: You are meeting your new boss for the first time.
This is the most appropriate polite greeting for a first professional meeting.
A: Labdien! Mani sauc Anna. B: Labdien, Anna! Es esmu Juris. A: ___________
After names are exchanged, the next logical step is 'Priecājos iepazīties!'.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
14 questionsIt is neutral. You can use it with a boss or a new friend at a bar. It is never 'wrong' for a first meeting.
Yes, in very casual settings with young people, 'Prieks!' is a common shorthand, but 'Priecājos iepazīties' is safer for learners.
It's okay! Say 'Atvainojiet, aizmirsu jūsu vārdu' (Sorry, I forgot your name) and then repeat 'Priecājos iepazīties' once they tell you.
No, the '-os' ending already tells the listener that 'I' am the one rejoicing. Omit it to sound more like a native.
'Priecājos' is a verb (I rejoice), while 'Prieks' is a noun (Joy). Both work, but the verb form is slightly more traditional.
No, Latvians do not bow. A slight nod of the head is okay, but a handshake is the standard physical greeting.
Yes! It's a great way to start an email to someone you haven't met yet: 'Labdien! Priecājos ar Jums iepazīties (virtuāli).'
Simply say 'Man arī!' (Me too!) or repeat the phrase: 'Man arī prieks iepazīties!'.
Yes, this is the standard phrase from Liepāja to Daugavpils.
The most formal version is 'Man ir liels gods ar Jums iepazīties' (It is a great honor to meet you).
Latvian reflexive verbs often look long to English speakers, but with practice, it becomes a single rhythmic unit: Pree-tsah-yuos-ee-eh-pah-zee-tyes.
Yes, but it's better to say 'Priecājos ar jums visiem iepazīties' (Happy to meet you all).
Absolutely. It is completely gender-neutral and polite for everyone.
Don't worry! Latvians are very happy when foreigners try to speak their language. They will understand you even if you stumble.
Related Phrases
Prieks iepazīties
synonymJoy to meet you
Ļoti patīkami
similarVery pleasant
Prieks tevi redzēt
contrastJoy to see you
Iepazīsties!
builds onMeet (someone)!
Man ir tas gods
specialized formI have the honor
