The Danish royal family is a constant presence in Danish media, from official events to casual appearances. If you're learning Danish, understanding royal terminology can help you follow the news, engage in conversations, and even sound a bit more like a local. Here’s a guide to the key words and phrases you’ll need.
Royal Titles and Family Members
Kongehuset
/ˈkɔŋəˌhuːsəð/“The Royal House”
The Danish royal family as an institution. Used broadly to refer to the monarchy and its activities.
Kongen
/kɔnɡə/“The King”
The reigning monarch. As of 2024, this refers to King Frederik X.
Dronningen
/drɔnenɡ/“The Queen”
The queen consort (currently Queen Mary) or queen regnant (previously Queen Margrethe II).
Kronprinsen
/kroːnprɛns/“The Crown Prince”
The heir apparent to the throne. Currently, this title belongs to Prince Christian, the eldest son of King Frederik and Queen Mary.
Prinsesse
/prensɛsə/“Princess”
A female member of the royal family, such as Princess Isabella or Princess Josephine.
Arvefølgen
/ˈɑːvəˌfølən/“The Line of Succession”
The order in which members of the royal family inherit the throne.
Key Royal Events and Traditions
Statsbesøg
/ˈsdædsbəˌsøːj/“State Visit”
An official visit by a foreign head of state, often involving ceremonies and public appearances.
Folketingets åbning
/ˈfɔlkəteŋəðs ˈɔːbneŋ/“Opening of Parliament”
A formal event where the monarch delivers a speech marking the start of the parliamentary year.
Kongeskibet
/ˈkɔŋəˌskiːbəð/“The Royal Yacht”
The royal family’s official yacht, often used for summer tours of Denmark.
Galla
/ˈɡala/“Gala”
A formal event, often involving tiaras, evening gowns, and military uniforms.
Places Associated with the Royal Family
Amalienborg
/aˈmæːljənˌbɔːˀ/The royal family’s primary residence in Copenhagen, consisting of four palaces around a central square.
Fredensborg Slot
/ˈfʁeːðənsbɔːˀ ˈslɔt/“Fredensborg Palace”
A royal palace used for official events and family gatherings, particularly in spring and autumn.
Marselisborg Slot
/maˈseːlisbɔːˀ ˈslɔt/“Marselisborg Palace”
The royal family’s summer residence in Aarhus, where they often spend Christmas.
Useful Phrases for Royal News
- “Kongeparret ankom til…” – “The royal couple arrived at…”
- “Prinsessen holdt en tale om…” – “The princess gave a speech about…”
- “Der var stor opmærksomhed omkring…” – “There was great attention around…”
- “Familien deltog i en privat ceremoni” – “The family attended a private ceremony”
Listening to Danish news broadcasts or reading articles about the royal family is a great way to practise these terms in context. For more Danish listening practice, check out our guide to the best Danish podcasts for learners.
Fun Royal Facts
- The Danish monarchy is over 1000 years old, making it one of the oldest in Europe.
- Queen Margrethe II was the first Danish monarch to voluntarily abdicate since 1146.
- The royal family’s surname is Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Glücksburg, but they rarely use it.
With these words and phrases, you’ll be better equipped to follow royal news in Danish. Whether it’s a state visit, a birthday celebration, or a casual outing, you’ll know exactly what’s being discussed.
