inderlige

Inderlige is a Danish adjective meaning heartfelt, sincere, or cordial. It is used to describe emotions, expressions, or actions that are earnest and warmly felt. Common examples include sentiments such as gratitude, sympathy, or affection, as in phrases like inderlige hilsner (heartfelt regards) or inderlige tak (sincere thanks). The term is most frequent in written Danish, especially in letters, speeches, and literary prose, and is less common in casual speech where synonyms such as hjertelig or oprigtig are often preferred.

Etymology and form. Inderlig derives from a stem related to inside or within, combined with the adjectival suffix -lig, which yields a sense of coming from within or being genuine. The form inderlige is the plural or attributive form used before plural nouns (for example, inderlige hilsner). The related noun inderlighed expresses the quality of sincerity or heartfeltness.

Usage and nuance. Inderlig conveys a warmer, more earnest tone than everyday synonyms. It is suitable for formal or literary writing and for expressions intended to feel intimate or deeply sincere. While closely related to hjertelig (heartfelt) and oprigtig (sincere), inderligoften carries a slightly more ceremonial or ceremonious nuance in contemporary Danish.

Related terms. inderlighed (sincerity, heartfeltness), hjertelig (heartfelt), oprigtig (sincere). Inderlige appears in standard Danish spelling and is recognized in dictionaries as a legitimate adjective form describing heartfelt qualities.