Fqinjët

Fqinjët is the Albanian word that translates to 'the neighbors' in English. It refers to the people who live in the surrounding homes and, more broadly, to members of the nearby community with whom one shares daily life.

Linguistically, fqinjët is the definite plural form of the noun fqinj, with the definite suffix -ët used in Albanian to indicate 'the' in plural nouns. It is used across Albanian-speaking regions, including Albania, Kosovo, and parts of North Macedonia, Montenegro, and Greece, where Albanian is spoken.

Socially, fqinjët denotes the immediate social circle formed by those living in close proximity. In traditional and rural settings, neighbors often cooperate on tasks such as farming, caring for children, and maintaining households; in urban settings, they commonly engage in everyday routines, exchange information, and provide practical help or security. The concept of good neighborliness is a feature of Albanian culture, as are customs of hospitality and mutual respect.

In modern contexts, neighborhood ties continue to influence daily life, though the nature of interaction can vary with urban density, migration, and digital communication. Fqinjët remains a core term in everyday Albanian and appears in literature, media, and proverbs that reflect community life.