kære

Kære is a term used in Danish and Norwegian to mean "dear" or "beloved." It functions as both an adjective describing affection and as a vocative form used to address someone directly. In both languages, it is commonly placed before a person’s name in greetings or salutations, and it can also begin a sentence or letter to convey warmth or politeness.

In Danish usage, kære appearances include phrases such as Kære Peter, Kære venner, or Kære mor. It can also appear in possessive or affectionate forms, for example min kære (my dear) when speaking to someone close. In everyday writing and emails, Kære is the standard opening before addressing the recipient, and the term sets a courteous or intimate tone depending on the relationship.

Norwegian uses kjære (often written kjæ­re in some dialects) with closely related functions. The form kjære appears in salutations like Kjære Thomas and Kjære venner, serving both formal and informal contexts. As in Danish, it can express affection in direct address or familiarity in personal communication.

Etymologically, kære and its Norwegian cognates are North Germanic in origin and have common roots with Swedish kära. The words are cognate across the Scandinavian languages and reflect a shared linguistic heritage for expressions of affection and polite address.

Overall, kære is a versatile term centered on affection and courtesy, widely used in both spoken and written Danish and Norwegian to address individuals or groups in a warm, respectful way.