Meaning
A polite greeting upon meeting.
Cultural Background
Swedes value physical space but direct eye contact. When saying 'Trevligt att träffas', look the person in the eye and give a single, firm handshake. In Finland-Swedish culture, the greeting might be slightly more formal or reserved, but the phrase remains the same. In international Swedish companies like IKEA or Volvo, this phrase is often the first bit of Swedish non-natives learn to show respect. On dating apps like Tinder in Sweden, 'Trevligt att träffas' is often used as the first line when meeting in person, even if you've chatted for weeks.
The Response
If someone says it to you first, simply reply with 'Trevligt att träffas' back, or 'Tack, detsamma' (Thanks, same to you).
Don't over-smile
In Sweden, a calm and sincere delivery is often more appreciated than an overly energetic American-style greeting.
Meaning
A polite greeting upon meeting.
The Response
If someone says it to you first, simply reply with 'Trevligt att träffas' back, or 'Tack, detsamma' (Thanks, same to you).
Don't over-smile
In Sweden, a calm and sincere delivery is often more appreciated than an overly energetic American-style greeting.
Add the name
Adding the person's name at the end ('Trevligt att träffas, Anna') makes you sound much more fluent and friendly.
Handshake is key
Always offer a handshake when saying this in person. It's the standard physical accompaniment.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing word in the standard greeting.
Trevligt ___ träffas!
'Att' is the infinitive marker required before the verb 'träffas'.
Which phrase is best for meeting a new colleague for the first time?
Introduction at work:
This is the standard polite introduction.
Complete the dialogue.
Anna: Hej, jag heter Anna. Erik: Hej Anna, jag heter Erik. ________.
After exchanging names, 'Trevligt att träffas' is the most natural response.
Match the phrase to the situation.
You are leaving a meeting with a new client.
Use the past tense 'var' when ending the meeting.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Meeting for the 1st time vs 2nd time
Practice Bank
4 exercisesTrevligt ___ träffas!
'Att' is the infinitive marker required before the verb 'träffas'.
Introduction at work:
This is the standard polite introduction.
Anna: Hej, jag heter Anna. Erik: Hej Anna, jag heter Erik. ________.
After exchanging names, 'Trevligt att träffas' is the most natural response.
You are leaving a meeting with a new client.
Use the past tense 'var' when ending the meeting.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
14 questionsNo, it's perfectly fine for a party. If you want to be more casual, you can say 'Kul att träffas'.
Sometimes people just say 'Trevligt!' with a smile, but 'Trevligt att träffas' is more complete and polite for a first meeting.
Because it refers to the act of meeting (a neuter concept), so the adjective takes the -t ending.
Yes, but change it to past tense: 'Det var trevligt att träffas'.
It happens! Just say 'Trevligt att träffas' and then later ask 'Vad var namnet igen?' (What was the name again?).
Only in very formal situations or ironically. Stick to 'Trevligt att träffas' to be safe.
Yes, use 'Det ska bli trevligt att träffas' if you are going to meet soon.
Not really a direct slang version, but 'Läget?' or 'Tjena!' are used in very casual introductions instead of a formal phrase.
Usually not. With children, a simple 'Hej!' or 'Vad heter du?' is more natural.
Yes, it is a universal phrase from Malmö to Kiruna.
'Träffas' is more common for social meetings. 'Mötas' is often used for physical meetings or abstract ideas meeting.
No, Swedes do not bow. A handshake and eye contact are the standard.
Yes! 'Trevligt att träffas, allihopa!' (Nice to meet you, everyone!).
Yes, it's a social formula. It's more about being polite than expressing deep joy.
Related Phrases
Kul att ses
similarNice to see you
Angenämt
synonymDelighted / Pleasant
Roligt att träffas
similarFun to meet you
Trevlig helg
builds onHave a nice weekend
Tack detsamma
contrastThanks, same to you
