The Ritual of Welcome: Hoş Geldiniz and Sefalar Getirdiniz

In Turkish series, the arrival of a guest is always a major event involving a specific set of ritualized phrases. Unlike the English "Welcome," the Turkish response is a two-part harmony.

The Call and Response

When a guest enters, the host says "Hoş geldiniz" (You have come pleasantly). The mandatory response from the guest is "Hoş bulduk" (We have found it pleasant). Failing to respond with Hoş bulduk is like leaving a sentence unfinished.

Elevating the Welcome

In more formal or traditional settings (common in dramas set in mansions or rural estates), you will hear:

• Sefalar getirdiniz: "You have brought joy/serenity." This is a higher form of Hoş geldiniz.
• Başımızın üstünde yeriniz var: "You have a place above our heads," meaning "You are our honored guest."

By learning these rituals, you gain insight into the deep-seated value of misafirperverlik (hospitality) that defines Turkish social life.