More than just a greeting

An introduction to the rich culture, language, and traditions of Luxembourg.

The Essence of “Moien”

“Moien” is the Luxembourgish way of saying good morning or hello. Simple yet profound, this word is often the first piece of the Luxembourgish language learned by those who come to live, visit or work, i.e. expats, commuters, cross-border workers from France, Germany and Belgium. It represents a key to unlocking the unique camaraderie and friendliness that define Luxembourg’s social fabric. With just five letters, “Moien” encapsulates the nation’s open-heartedness and its people’s readiness to embrace others.

On this topic, check out the 10 basic expressions to know in Luxembourgish on justarrived.lu

 

Moien is openness, friendliness, and mutual respect.

A Gateway to Luxembourgish Culture

Beyond its use as a daily salutation, “Moien” serves as a gateway to the rich tapestry of Luxembourgish culture. It introduces the curious to a language that is both ancient and living, a language that has evolved alongside the country’s history, embodying its resilience and adaptability. Luxembourgish, with its roots deep in the Moselle Franconian dialects, is a testament to the country’s unique position at the crossroads of European cultures.

The Traditions Behind the Word

Embracing “Moien” means delving into a world where traditions are cherished and shared. Luxembourg’s customs, from the vibrant celebrations of Schueberfouer to the quiet beauty of its Moselle wine festivals, are invitations to discover the soul of this land. “Moien” opens the door to understanding how Luxembourg maintains its traditions while standing at the forefront of European politics, finance, and innovation.

Why “Moien” Matters

In today’s global village, “Moien” stands out as a symbol of genuine human connection, a reminder of the importance of welcoming others into our lives. For expatriates and visitors, mastering this word is the first step toward feeling at home in Luxembourg. For Luxembourgers, it is a reaffirmation of their identity and values.

“Moien” is not just a word; it’s an experience, a sentiment, and a philosophy. It reflects the Luxembourgish ethos of openness, friendliness, and mutual respect. This simple greeting is your invitation to explore Luxembourg, to learn its language, to celebrate its traditions, and to embrace its welcoming spirit. Welcome to Luxembourg, where every “Moien” is the beginning of a new friendship, a new adventure, and a deeper understanding of this enchanting country.

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Origins of Luxembourgish

Origins of the language

Luxembourgish belongs to the West Germanic group of languages and has evolved from a Moselle Franconian dialect, part of the larger Germanic language family. Its roots can be traced back to the Old High German spoken in the Early Middle Ages, with influences from Frankish and later Middle High German. Over centuries, Luxembourgish has absorbed elements from French and Latin, mirroring the region’s complex history of governance and cultural exchange.

Status today

Today, Luxembourgish is recognized as the national language of Luxembourg and one of the three administrative languages, alongside French and German. The language plays a crucial role in the daily lives of Luxembourgers, serving as a key component of local media, education, and government. Despite the country’s multilingual landscape, Luxembourgish remains the preferred language for social interactions and cultural expression among the native population.