I'm learning
dansk
lys — meaning in English: light
Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
Guess the translation for
light
immanent
kender
lys
måne
hånd
Skip this question
🎓
Learn Danish for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
neutral
very common
Usage
Native Danish speakers often use the word 'lys' in everyday situations such as describing the brightness of a room or discussing the time of day, particularly in relation to the changing seasons. For instance, you might hear someone say, 'Der er meget lys i stuen,' meaning 'There is a lot of light in the living room,' when inviting guests over during daytime gatherings.
Synonyms & nuances
'Lys' can be compared to 'belysning,' which specifically refers to the act of illuminating a space, while 'lys' is more about the presence of light itself. You would choose 'lys' when discussing light in a general sense, whereas 'belysning' would be used in contexts related to design or technical aspects of lighting.
Culture
'Lys' has its roots in Old Norse 'ljós,' which also means 'light.' In Danish culture, the concept of light is significant, especially during the long, dark winters, where the arrival of spring and longer days is celebrated. Additionally, 'lys' is often associated with traditional Danish hygge, which emphasizes coziness and warmth through light sources like candles.
FAQ
