It’s different from one country to another, and may take some time to learn and get used to. For this reason, learning Swedish gestures and how to use them can help you immensely as a learner of the language.
In fact, there are two approaches to this…
You either follow the old-school way of making mistakes and learning from them, or you use a resource like this blog post to learn all the important elements of Swedish body gestures.
We’ve done the work for you and broken down all the possible gestures you might need for different circumstances.
Some body gestures might feel very marginal. Imagine the eye-contact we make with the cashier or security guard of the supermarket, or even the way we greet the friends of our friends.
We don’t normally attribute much importance to such gestures, but we might deliver the wrong impressions if we do them incorrectly (or skip them altogether). Here’s how to go about the most common Swedish greetings and gestures during your visit to the country:
A- Handshakes
Meeting a group of people in a business context? Shake hands with everyone present, even those you don’t personally know.
Around older people, the traditional handshake when greeting and leaving is expected. On the other hand, if you’re meeting with younger people, chances are you won’t need to make any physical contact, not even a handshake.
In a business meeting or similar context, if there’s no other person around to introduce you, take initiative and shake hands as you introduce yourself.
B- Eye Contact
Eye contact is crucial during communication in Sweden. You’ll want to make as much eye contact as necessary during your conversations with others. Making little or no eye contact could give off the perception that you’re careless or negligent.
For example, if you’re in a meeting discussing a contract or project over dinner, you’ll want to make sure you’re giving your partner as much eye contact as you give your food, or even more. You don’t want them to leave with a bad impression that may cost you a business deal or work relationship.
First, if you happen to be a smoker, never light up a cigarette without permission. You’ll want to make sure you are in the right place for smoking, and that those around you wouldn’t have an issue with that. Non-smokers may not be comfortable inhaling smoke.
When it comes to actual dining, you’ll be expected to respect several norms and gestures.
For males, remove your hat indoors. And when ending a meal, it’s customary for the male guest of honor to tap their glass with a piece of cutlery and to thank the hostess on behalf of everyone present at the dinner. If the host is a male, the female guest of honor would be expected to thank the host on behalf of everyone.
Let’s talk toasting. When toasting, make eye contact with the other guests. After toasting, men should put their glasses down only after the women do. It may be a bit of a hassle to wait for women to do so, but it’s usually a pretty easy process. While looking at others’ eyes and toasting, say Skål.
When around seniors, always allow them to toast first to show respect.
When it comes to the bill, businesswomen pay the check at a restaurant with no embarrassment whatsoever. Gender equality is big in Sweden, so there’s less pressure and fewer expectations from men, and women are more independent.
During the act of eating, a few norms should be respected. Do not use a dinner knife for butter; there will usually be a butter knife provided to do just that. Also, put your hands on the table while leaving your elbows out.
If you need to beckon to a waiter or host, wave one hand and make eye contact with them.
Post-meal, place your knife and fork side by side on your own plate at a 5:25 position. It’s best to finish what’s on your plate so as to show satisfaction with the host’s dinner, and to try a little bit of everything served.
The day after the dinner, it’s worth dropping your host a message or making a quick call to thank them for the invitation. And even better, make sure to invite them back for dinner in the future.
3. Business Etiquette
When doing business, you want to make sure you perfect your etiquette and do just as well as a Swedish businessman would do.
Clothing-wise, Swedes are very well-dressed even in casual situations. Appropriate business clothing for men would be a dark-colored suit and a tie, and for women, it would be a skirt and blouse or a business suit.
Use appropriate titles—Herr. (Mr.) and Fru. (Mrs.)—plus last names when talking to others, until you’re invited to use first names instead. In business settings, English words are very commonly used in conjunction with Swedish. Knowing Swedish helps, but English can still take you a long way in the country of Sweden.
It’s also worth noting that Swedes take time and punctuality very seriously. You don’t want to miss a meeting or come late; that might cost you trust and maybe your whole work relationship.
When things don’t go as anticipated, call as soon as possible and reschedule. Calls are expected to be done through business numbers only. Do not call home numbers unless it’s a matter of urgency or you have a well-established relationship with the person you’re calling.
4. General Information About Swedish Body Language and Etiquette
There are quite a few things that are worth knowing about Swedish body language and etiquette.
Generally speaking, you’ll want to be pretty careful when it comes to body language in Sweden. You’ll mostly want to be attentive and somewhat reactive to what others do rather than take initiative yourself. Swedes are pretty reserved when it comes to body language, and they avoid touching or embracing frequently around other people, including friends.
On a different note, it’s worth educating yourself about Sweden in general. Holding conversations about country-specific topics can get you the attention you may want from Swedes.
You can do this through observing your surroundings in day-to-day life, or by using resources like the internet to learn more about Sweden. The country’s economy, high standard of living, architecture, history, sports, music scene, and politics are all great examples of topics you may want to do research about.
That said, when around Swedes, be careful not to bring up any sensitive or irritating topics.
For example, Swedes hold a lot of pride for their own cities or regions, and therefore expect you not to praise other cities or areas of Sweden (let alone other Scandinavian countries).
Of course, this depends on the person you’re talking to, but it’s a good rule of thumb to keep in mind. The same goes for criticizing Swedes’ negative habits related to lifestyle, sex, suicide rates, marriage, prices, etc. Keep it positive.
Plus, be careful with compliments. You don’t want to sound insincere, so only compliment when you actually mean it; otherwise, you might be perceived as rude.
5. Conclusion
Congratulations for getting this far. You’re now able to fully engage with Swedes without worrying about the tricky nuts and bolts of Swedish body gestures.
Even better, you can start learning some Swedish to spice up your interactions. Remember the 7-38-55 rule we talked about in the introduction? The 55 percent goes to body language, the 38 percent is for voice, and the remaining seven percent is for spoken word.
Therefore, spoken language makes up about 45 percent (38+7) of your communication. Wonder what the best way to learn in the least amount of time is?
SwedishPod101.
SwedishPod101 gives you full access to a range of digital courses in different formats (video, audio, and text), all integrated in an effective learning system to guarantee the fastest and best results for you.
You can access all of this and more once you sign up for your free lifetime account with SwedishPod101.com.
It’s a linguistic concept that describes similar-sounding or similar-looking words in different languages that do not have the same meaning.
It’s most common among languages that belong to the same linguistic group, such as between North Germanic languages (Swedish, Danish, Norwegian, Icelandic, and Faroese) and West Germanic languages (English, German, and Dutch).
For example, eventuellt in Swedish does not mean “eventually” as you may suppose. It actually translates to “possibly” or “potentially” in English.
And then there are untranslatable Swedish words. These are words that are used in one language (Swedish) but cannot be translated to another.
This is usually the case with words that are attributed to cultural, geographical, and historic particularities of a certain language or country.
One of the famous traditions unique to Sweden is eating fermented herring, and Swedes had no choice but to create some untranslatable vocabulary unique to this tradition, which takes us to the first item on our list of unique words in Swedish…
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This unique Swedish word refers to the first day of the year when you can eat fermented herring (surströmming).
Example Situation:
It refers to the Swedish tradition of eating fermented Baltic Sea herring on the first day when that year’s cans are presented on stores’ shelves. The premiere falls on the third Thursday in August every year. It’s given such significance due to the extravagant smelliness of this delicacy.
Here’s an example sentence for you:
I morgon är det surströmmingspremiär, är du redo? Tomorrow is surströmmingspremiär, are you ready?
Additional Notes:
Traditionally, because the herring is way too smelly to be eaten separately, Swedes like to put it in a sandwich with other ingredients. The sour herring during the surströmmingspremiär is often folded in a thin flatbread sandwich after buttering the bread; chopped onions and mandelpotatis (almond potatoes) are usually folded inside as well. Hint: This is not a universally enjoyed experience.
This is a term used to refer to someone who refuses to swim (in other words, a scaredy-cat).
Example Situation:
Someone may call you this if you refuse to swim with friends at a lake because the water feels cold:
Det är dags för dig att simma, badkruka. It’s time for you to swim, badkruka.
Additional Notes:
This expression is considered more friendly than rude, so don’t be offended if someone happens to use it. You can also feel free to use it around your friends when you spot a badkruka!
You could use this phrase to explain a situation where you had to quarantine at home for 14 dygn due to a virus infection:
Jag satt fast hemma i 14 dygn. I was stuck at home for 14 dygn.
Additional Notes:
If you ever want to tell a story that involves several days (and nights), use dygn to sound more like a native and impress your Swedish buddies.
4. Harkla
Meaning:
Throat-clearing sound
Example Situation:
You could use this phrase after hearing someone clear their throat while giving a speech. For example:
Hans harklande är irriterande. His harklande is annoying.
Additional Notes:
It happens to the best of us: that brief coughing sound we make to clear our throat while speaking to others (and maybe while we think of what to say next). Swedes have gone the distance and invented a separate word to describe that little instance.
5. Hoppilandkalle
Literal Translation:
Jump-ashore-kalle
Meaning:
This word refers to the person (usually a sailor) who jumps ashore to moor a boat.
Example Situation:
Imagine that a sailor jumped out of a ship and broke his legs. You might say:
Hoppilandkalle bröt båda benen. Jump-ashore-kalle broke both legs.
Additional Notes:
Kalle in Hoppilandkalleis the equivalent of Jack in “jack-of-all-trades.” Interestingly, there’s even a news story with the word hoppilandkalle mentioned in the title (“Hoppilandkalle bröt båda benen“). The story describes how a sailor broke both legs landing on a pier that was 2.5 meters down while trying to dock a cargo ship.
6. Blåsväder
Literal Translation:
Stormy weather
Meaning:
Trouble
Example Situation:
You could use this phrase if you have an exam coming up that you haven’t prepared for, or if your company is having a crisis:
Vårt företag är i blåsväder på grund av finanskrisen. Our company is in blåsväder due to the financial crisis.
Additional Notes:
Although this expression may sound like something that would only be used colloquially, you can actually find it in news articles or hear it on TV, so feel free to use it whenever you see fit.
This word would probably come up if you were collecting bottles from friends to return to the recycling machine at the supermarket in exchange for a few small coins:
Han vill ta mina tomma flaskor och panta dem. He wants to take my empty bottles and “panta” them.
Additional Notes:
If you look up the word “pant” in dictionaries, you’ll find out that it also means “to lend,” which is the more translatable meaning of the word. So this word is really only partially untranslatable.
8. Festsnusa
Literal Translation:
Party dip
Meaning:
This word refers to moist dip users at parties.
Example Situation:
Imagine you’re using moist dip at a party and are about to run out:
Jag har slut på snus. Kan någon av er festsnusare ge mig lite av ert? I’m running out of dip. Can any of you festsnusare give me some of yours?
Additional Notes:
Fest is the Swedish word for “party.” Dip is a tobacco product that’s uniquely popular in Sweden, and to a lesser extent in the other Nordic countries. Put them together and turn it into an adjective, and you have a “party dipper” (festsnusare).
The tobacco product does exist in some areas where Swedish immigrants went in the nineteenth century, and it’s from there we get the American English term dip. As people try to cut down on all tobacco products, there are now plenty of people who only use snus (dip) during parties where clean living is not always the first priority.
9. Vaska
Literal Translation:
To sink
Meaning:
To order two bottles of champagne and empty one down the sink
Example Situation:
Imagine you’re at a club where you want to impress other people. You might say:
Ska vi vaska idag eller inte? Are we going to sink today or not?
Additional Notes:
The fun part about this untranslatable Swedish word is the story behind it. Popular bars in Swedish cities Visby and Båstadstopped allowing customers to spray champagne in 2007 and 2010. As a reaction to that, people started to Vaska the champagne instead of spraying it.
10. Planka
Literal Translation:
To plank
Meaning:
To sneak through the metro turnstiles behind someone else (like a plank of wood)
Example Situation:
Imagine you have to sneak through the turnstiles to hop on the next train because you’ve forgotten your wallet at home. You might tell your friend:
Jag har ingen biljett. Jag tror att jag måste planka. I do not have a ticket. I think I’ll need to plank.
Additional Notes:
With the rising access to public transportation all around Sweden, there are some problems building up. One of the more recently prominent ones is “planking.” It’s popular among those who want to avoid paying for tickets, or those who just don’t have time to get one and need to catch that incoming train fast. It’s also more generally used to describe sneaking inside anywhere without a ticket.
11. Conclusion
And there you have it! You now know the most fun untranslatable Swedish words as well as many little cultural and social traits/traditions prominent in Sweden. Which of these words was your favorite, and why?
While it’s fun to learn these cool Swedish words and their meanings, formulating the correct sentences to use them correctly could be challenging for many learners.
Want to take that step further and learn how to use more untranslatable words (and more)?
Enter SwedishPod101.
SwedishPod101 is the go-to online learning program for learners looking for an efficient tool that helps them retain the most vocabulary and information in the least amount of time.
The diversity of our content (audio, video, and text) makes it possible for you to take in new information in different circumstances. Whether you’re commuting to work, sitting on your couch after school, or anything in between, you can have access to tools and lessons that will help you expand your Swedish-language knowledge.
If you’re planning to visit Sweden or want to move there, it’s important to know about the different ways you can introduce yourself in Swedish, and how to start a conversation.
Let’s say you meet a new person and want to know this individual more. There are some things you should keep in mind before you introduce yourself in Swedish, since Swedish introductions are different than in other countries. That said, a simple “My name is,” in Swedish can go a long way.
In this article, we’ll go further into the subject of introducing yourself in Swedish so that you’ll never be at a loss for words! You’ll have the Swedish self-introduction down in no time.
The first step in how to introduce yourself in Swedish is identifying yourself. This means giving information to the other person about who you are: your name, your profession, etc. Any deep conversation or long-lasting friendship begins here.
1- “My Name is,” in Swedish
The very first thing you say when introducing yourself in Sweden is hello (or any number of Swedish greetings, for that matter!), and after that, you should say what your name is.
When meeting someone new, it’s very common to shake the other person’s hand and give them your first name. Keep in mind that if you’re the one who initiates the handshake, you should also be the first one to say your name.
If you’ve already met this person, shaking hands isn’t necessary. It’s also common to give this person a small hug—but only when both of you feel comfortable with each other, and have shared a conversation before.
Take a look at this example:
“My name is Emma.” Mitt namn är Emma.
“My” = Mitt
“Name” = Namn
“Is” = Är
2- How to Introduce Yourself in Swedish in a Group
If there’s more than one person when you introduce yourself, it’s more common to just say hello and then state your name.
If you want to appear more friendly, it’s also important to tell the other person that you think it’s nice to meet them. For example:
“Hello, Elin. Nice to meet you.” Hej, Elin. Trevligt att träffas.
But it all depends on how many people you’re going to introduce yourself to. If there’s several people in the group, a simple hello followed by your name is fine.
3- How to Introduce Yourself in Swedish to an Individual
If there’s only one person you’re gonna introduce yourself to, then the conversation will be more intimate. This means that it’s expected to use longer sentences. For example:
“Hello, my name is Elin. Nice to meet you.” Hej, mitt namn är Elin. Trevligt att träffas.
It’s also important to look into the other person’s eyes when talking to them. This will make them feel more comfortable around you.
4- Starting a Conversation in Swedish
Introducing yourself in Swedish is just the beginning. Once you’ve introduced yourself and told the other person your name, it’s time to start a conversation.
A couple of interesting topics you may want to consider are your age and nationality. But do keep in mind that some people may think it’s a bit weird, as Swedish people are a bit guarded. It may take some time before they open up, especially regarding age and nationality.
We do have a couple of relevant vocabulary lists you can study to prepare for these topics if they happen to arise:
2. Introductions in Swedish: Placing Yourself in Society
When you want to start a conversation in Swedish, it’s much more common to talk about your profession. So, after you’ve said your name and introduced yourself in Swedish, you can ask the other person what their profession is. This is a good conversation starter and may be something you can talk about for a long time.
“What do you work with?” Vad jobbar du med?
Once the person you’re speaking with has warmed up to you, they may be interested in talking about their hobbies.
“Do you have any hobbies?” Har du några intressen?
“What are your hobbies?” Vad är dina intressen?
Music can also be a great conversation starter:
“What kind of music do you like?” Vad gillar du för musik?
If you don’t know how to start the conversation, they may initiate the conversation instead. This will make everything feel smoother for you.
3. Talking About Personal Stuff in Swedish
As everyone is different and unique, there are no set-in-stone right or wrong ways to continue a conversion after you’ve introduced yourself. As the conversation movies forward, you should naturally get a better idea of what your conversation partner enjoys (or doesn’t enjoy!) talking about. You can go from there.
For example, if you’re starting a conversation about your profession, you’ll notice pretty quickly if this person is comfortable talking about their job or not.
If you don’t see an immediate reaction or passion in the conversation, then it may be best to change the topic.
It may take some time before a Swedish person opens themselves up to you. But once you notice this change, the other person may be more comfortable with answering questions you have.
The best thing is to listen and see the other person’s reactions.
4. What NOT to Talk About
There are a few things that Swedish people generally don’t like talking about, especially when you’ve just met. Be mindful of these things, so that you don’t accidentally offend them or make them uncomfortable.
Nationality
Swedish people don’t usually talk about their nationality or where they’re from. They’re also unlikely to ask about it. This largely has to do with the variety of different nationalities in Sweden; many people don’t see the point in talking about it.
Income
People in Sweden also never talk about how much they earn.
Politics
This might go without saying, but politics can be a very touchy subject. So definitely avoid this topic as much as possible.
Age
It’s not common to ask the other person how old they are; this information should only be offered voluntarily by the other party. Further, you should never ask a woman how old she is, especially if it’s an older woman; this is considered rude.
If, on the other hand, it’s obvious that the person you’re talking with is fairly young, it may be okay to ask. (But, again, it’s better if they just tell you voluntarily.)
5. Final Thoughts & Tips
If you don’t want to seem rude, then giving your name is a must.
But after this, people won’t see you as rude if you don’t continue a conversation. Swedish people are already pretty guarded, and it takes some time for them to open up, especially regarding personal questions. But you may find that certain topics can really get Swedish people talking and passionate; it all depends on who you’re talking with!
If you’re really interested in delving deeper into a conversation, it’s a good idea to talk about your own passions and hobbies first. Gauge the other person’s reactions while you’re speaking to determine if you should keep going on the current topic or not.
This will make the other person interested in what you have to say, and it doesn’t matter if she or he has the same interests. You’ve already shown that you’re passionate about something, and this will automatically make the other person more comfortable around you.
How SwedishPod101 Can Help You Master Swedish
As you’ve probably noticed, people in Sweden has its own set of introduction and conversation rules and traditions, just like any other country.
Now that you have a better idea of how to introduce yourself in Swedish, we can help you learn many more Swedish phrases and grammar rules, easy. You can start introducing yourself in Swedish in no time. Here you can find great information on how you introduce yourself in Swedish.
In the meantime, why not practice? Leave us a comment below introducing yourself in Swedish! We look forward to hearing from you, and learning more about you!
Around the time of the summer solstice, Sweden celebrates Midsummer. Midsummer Sweden celebrations and traditions, such as its Midsummer magic beliefs, offer a close look at Swedish culture as a whole. And as any successful language-learner can attest to, understanding a country’s culture is essential in mastering language!
At SwedishPod101.com, we hope to make this learning journey both fun and informative for you, as we go over the details of the Midsummer festival Sweden celebrates each year.
1. What is Midsummer in Sweden?
Midsummer is celebrated near the summer solstice, which is the date when the day is the longest and the night is the shortest. The origin of celebrating this day is really just to enjoy the longest day of the year. The correct day to celebrate Midsummer should really be June 21, when the summer solstice typically occurs.
Midsummer is, strangely enough, not a public holiday in Sweden, even if it’s described in the law text in the same manner as other holidays like Christmas and Easter Saturday.
Midsummer Sweden celebrations used to be of a more pagan nature, before the Christian church Christianized the holiday in the 1300 and 1400s. This involved trying to get people to use the day as a commemoration of St. John, but most Swedes didn’t go along with this. Today, Midsummer Day can be described as a mixed holiday, with some celebrating its religious nature and others just enjoying the warm, long day.
2. When is Midsummer Day?
The date of the Midsummer Day in Sweden varies each year, but is always on a day between the 20th and 26th of June. For your convenience, here’s a list of this holiday’s date for the next ten years.
2019: June 22
2020: June 20
2021: June 26
2022: June 25
2023: June 24
2024: June 22
2025: June 21
2026: June 20
2027: June 26
2028: June 24
3. Reading Practice: Midsummer Sweden Celebrations
How do Swedes celebrate Midsummer Day? On Midsummer Day, Sweden has a variety of traditions. Midsummer Eve Sweden traditions include good food, drinking songs, and much more. Read the Swedish text below to discover more about Midsummer Sweden celebrations, and find the English translation directly below it.
—
På midsommarafton är det tradition att resa en midsommarstång. Midsommarstången är utformad som ett kors och kläs med björklöv och blommor. Sedan dansar man i stor grupp runt stången och sjunger olika sånger, ofta ackompanjerat av dragspel. Kvinnor och barn brukar göra egna kransar av björklöv och blommor som de har i håret. Man får dock akta sig för fästingar!
På midsommar är det nog bra om du är extra försiktig! I samband med midsommar finns en stark tradition av alkoholkonsumtion. Det är vanligt att dricka snaps och sjunga snapsvisor till maten, för att senare på kvällen övergå till lite andra alkoholhaltiga drycker. Detta gör midsommar till en av de dagarna på året då mest fylleri och bråk inträffar. Eftersom midsommar är starten på mångas semester är det många som reser just runt den här tiden. På grund av detta inträffar mycket trafikolyckor.
Små Grodorna är en sång som sjungs när vi dansar runt midsommarstången! Dansen är rolig och de dansande imiterar grodor. Dansen brukar bli extra populär efter ett par snaps!
Maten är också väldigt viktigt i firandet. Man äter matjessill, gräddfil, färskpotatis, och jordgubbar till efterrätt. Till maten dricker man Snaps, öl, och cider.
—
On Midsummer Eve it is tradition to put up a maypole. The maypole is shaped like a cross and covered with leaves and flowers. People then dance around the pole in a large group and sing different songs, often accompanied by an accordion. Women and children usually make their own wreaths of leaves and flowers and wear them in their hair. However, one must beware of ticks!
At Midsummer it is probably good if you are extra careful! In conjunction with Midsummer, there is a strong tradition of alcohol consumption. It is common to drink snaps and sing drinking songs to accompany the food, and later on in the evening to continue to drink other alcoholic beverages. This makes Midsummer one of the days of the year when the most drunkenness and fights occur. Since Midsummer is the start of many people’s holiday, a lot of Swedish people are traveling right around this time. Because of this, a higher number of traffic accidents also occurs.
The Small Frogs is the name of a song that is sung when we dance around the maypole! The dance itself is quite funny, as the dancers are imitating frogs. The dance usually becomes extra popular after a few snaps!
In Sweden, there are many supernatural beliefs about Midsummer, often referred to as “Midsummer magic.”
For example, it’s said that if children pick seven or nine flowers, climb over nine field fences, and fall asleep without a word, the child will see its future in their dream.
It’s also said that if you put seven different kinds of flowers under your pillow on Midsummer Eve, you’ll end up dreaming about the person you’ll marry in the future!
5. Useful Vocabulary for Midsummer Day in Sweden
Here’s the most important vocabulary you should know for Midsummer Day in Sweden!
Potatis — “Potato”
Sill — “Herring”
Staket — “Fence”
Dragspel — “Accordion”
Midsommardagen — “Midsummer’s Day”
Dill — “Dill”
Dansa runt stången — “Dance around the pole”
Inlagd sill — “Pickled herring Sweden”
Midsommarkrans — “Midsummer wreath”
Midsommarstång — “Midsummer pole”
Midsommar — “Midsummer”
Jordgubbstårta — “Strawberry cake”
Snaps — “Shot”
Sju sorters blommor — “Seven different kinds of flowers”
To hear each vocabulary word pronounced, check out our Swedish Midsummer Day vocabulary list. Here, each word is accompanied by an audio file of its pronunciation.
Conclusion
What do you think about Midsummer Day celebrations in Sweden? Does your country also have a Midsummer holiday, and if so, are traditions similar or very different to the Midsummer Fest Sweden has? Let us know in the comments! We always love hearing from you. 🙂
To keep learning about Swedish culture and the language, visit us at SwedishPod101.com. We provide effective, practical learning tools for every learner to ensure that anyone can master Swedish! Read more insightful blog posts like this one, brush up on your Swedish vocabulary, and chat with fellow Swedish learners on our online forums! By upgrading to Premium Plus, you can also begin using our MyTeacher program to learn Swedish with your own personal teacher.
You’ve set out to learn Swedish; with SwedishPod101 at your side, you can master it! Keep up the good work to start seeing progress in no time!
Do you often feel lonely and sad? Do you long for romance and are willing to do whatever it takes to meet that special person? Speaking another language could revolutionize your love life! So, why wait? Learning how to say ‘love’ in Swedish could be just what you need to find it.
Or perhaps you were lucky, and have found your Swedish partner already. Fantastic! Yet, a cross-cultural relationship comes with unique challenges. Learning how to speak your lover’s language will greatly improve your communication and enhance the relationship. At SwedishPod101, our team will teach you all the words, quotes and phrases you need to woo your Swedish lover with excellence! Our tutors provide personal assistance, with plenty of extra material available to make Swedish dating easy for you.
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1. Common Phrases You’ll Need for a Date
So, you have met your Swedish love interest. Congratulations! Who knows where this could take you…?! However, the two of you have just met and you’re not ready to say the Swedish word for love just yet. Great, it is better to get to know him/her first. Wow your prospective love by using these Swedish date phrases to set up a spectacular first date.
Would you like to go out to dinner with me?
Skulle du vilja gå ut och äta med mig?
The important question! In most cultures, this phrase indicates: ‘I’m romantically interested in you’. Flirting in Swedish is no different, so don’t take your date to Mcdonald’s!
Are you free this weekend?
Är du ledig i helgen?
This is a preamble to asking your love interest on a date. If you get an immediate ‘Yes’, that’s good news!
Would you like to hang out with me?
Skulle du vilja hänga med mig?
You like her/him, but you’re not sure if there’s chemistry. Ask them to hang out first to see if a dinner date is next.
What time shall we meet tomorrow?
När ska vi ses imorgon?
Set a time, and be sure to arrive early! Nothing spoils a potential relationship more than a tardy date.
Where shall we meet?
Vart ska vi ses?
You can ask this, but also suggest a place.
You look great.
Du ser jättebra ut.
A wonderful ice breaker! This phrase will help them relax a bit – they probably took great care to look their best just for you.
You are so cute.
Du är så söt.
If the two of you are getting on really well, this is a fun, flirtatious phrase to use.
What do you think of this place?
Vad tror du om det här stället?
This another good conversation starter. Show off your Swedish language skills!
Can I see you again?
Kan jag få träffa dig igen?
So the date went really well – don’t waste time! Make sure you will see each other again.
Shall we go somewhere else?
Ska vi gå någon annanstans?
If the place you meet at is not great, you can suggest going elsewhere. It is also a good question to follow the previous one. Variety is the spice of life!
I know a good place.
Jag vet ett bra ställe.
Use this with the previous question. However, don’t say if you don’t know a good place!
I will drive you home.
Jag kör hem dig.
If your date doesn’t have transport, this is a polite, considerate offer. However, don’t be offended if she/he turns you down on the first date. Especially a woman might not feel comfortable letting you drive her home when the two of you are still basically strangers.
That was a great evening.
Det här var en jättebra kväll.
This is a good phrase to end the evening with.
When can I see you again?
När kan jag träffa dig igen?
If he/she replied ‘Yes’ to ‘Can I see you again?’, this is the next important question.
I’ll call you.
Jag ringer dig.
Say this only if you really mean to do it. In many cultures, this could imply that you’re keeping the proverbial backdoor open.
You learned all the Swedish phrases to make a date – congratulations! Now you have to decide where to meet, which can be tricky. Discuss these options with your lover to gauge whether you like the same things. Check out romantic date ideas in Swedish below!
museum
muséum
If you’re looking for unique date ideas that are fun but won’t break the bank, museums are the perfect spot! You won’t be running out of things to say in the conversations.
go to the aquarium
gå till akvariet
Going to the aquarium is another good idea if you need topics for conversation, or if you need to impress your lover’s kids! Make sure your date doesn’t have a problem with aquariums.
walk on the beach
gå på stranden
This can be a very romantic stroll, especially at night! The sea is often associated with romance and beauty.
have a picnic
ha en picknick
If you and your date need to get more comfortable together, this can be a fantastic date. Spending time in nature is soothing and calms the nerves.
cook a meal together
laga mat tillsammans
If you want to get an idea of your date’s true character in one go, this is an excellent date! You will quickly see if the two of you can work together in a confined space. If it works, it will be fantastic for the relationship and create a sense of intimacy. If not, you will probably part ways!
have dinner and see a movie
äta mat och se en film
This is traditional date choice works perfectly well. Just make sure you and your date like the same kind of movies!
candlelit dinner
middag med tända ljus
A candlelit dinner is perhaps best to reserve for when the relationship is getting serious. It’s very intimate, and says: “Romance!” It’s a fantastic choice if you’re sure you and your date are in love with each other!
go to the zoo
gå till en djurpark
This is a good choice for shy lovers who want to get the conversation going. Just make sure your date likes zoos, as some people dislike them. Maybe not for the first date, but this is also a great choice if your lover has children – you’ll win his/her adoration for inviting them along!
go for a long walk
ta en lång promenad
Need to talk about serious stuff, or just want to relax with your date? Walking together is soothing, and a habit you can keep up together always! Just make sure it’s a beautiful walk that’s not too strenuous.
go to the opera
gå på opera
This type of date should only be attempted if both of you love the opera. It can be a special treat, followed by a candlelit dinner!
3. Must-know Valentine’s Day Vocabulary
Expressing your feelings honestly is very important in any relationship all year round. Yet, on Valentine’s Day you really want to shine. Impress your lover this Valentine’s with your excellent vocabulary, and make his/her day! We teach you, in fun, effective ways, the meanings of the words and how to pronounce them. You can also copy the characters and learn how to write ‘I love you’ in Swedish – think how impressed your date will be!
4. Swedish Love Phrases for Valentine’s Day
So, you now have the basic Valentine’s Day vocabulary under your belt. Well done! But, do you know how to say ‘I love you’ in Swedish yet? Or perhaps you are still only friends. So, do you know how to say ‘I like you’ or ‘I have a crush on you’ in Swedish? No? Don’t worry, here are all the love phrases you need to bowl over your Swedish love on this special day!
You mean so much to me.
Du betyder så mycket för mig.
This is a beautiful expression of gratitude that will enhance any relationship! It makes the receiver feel appreciated and their efforts recognized.
Will you be my Valentine?
Vill du bli min Valentin?
With these words, you are taking your relationship to the next level! Or, if you have been a couple for a while, it shows that you still feel the romance. So, go for it!
You’re so beautiful.
Du är så vacker.
If you don’t know how to say ‘You’re pretty’ in Swedish, this is a good substitute, gentlemen!
I think of you as more than a friend.
Jag ser dig som mer än en vän.
Say this if you are not yet sure that your romantic feelings are reciprocated. It is also a safe go-to if you’re unsure about the Swedish dating culture.
A hundred hearts would be too few to carry all my love for you.
Hundra hjärtan skulle vara för få för att bära all min kärlek till dig.
You romantic you…! When your heart overflows with love, this would be the best phrase to use.
Love is just love. It can never be explained.
Kärlek är bara kärlek. Det kan aldrig förklaras.
If you fell in love unexpectedly or inexplicably, this one’s for you.
You’re so handsome.
Du är så snygg.
Ladies, this phrase lets your Swedish love know how much you appreciate his looks! Don’t be shy to use it; men like compliments too.
I’ve got a crush on you.
Jag är förtjust i dig.
If you like someone, but you’re unsure about starting a relationship, it would be prudent to say this. It simply means that you like someone very, very much and think they’re amazing.
You make me want to be a better man.
Du får mig att vilja bli en bättre man.
Gentlemen, don’t claim this phrase as your own! It hails from the movie ‘As Good as it Gets’, but it is sure to make your Swedish girlfriend feel very special. Let her know that she inspires you!
Let all that you do be done in love.
Gör allting i kärlek.
We hope.
You are my sunshine, my love.
Du är mitt solsken, min älskling.
A compliment that lets your lover know they bring a special quality to your life. Really nice!
Words can’t describe my love for you.
Ord kan inte beskriva min kärlek till dig.
Better say this when you’re feeling serious about the relationship! It means that your feelings are very intense.
We were meant to be together.
Vi var menade att vara tillsammans.
This is a loving affirmation that shows you see a future together, and that you feel a special bond with your partner.
If you were thinking about someone while reading this, you’re definitely in love.
Om du tänkte på någon när du läste detta, är du definitivt kär.
Here’s something fun to tease your lover with. And hope he/she was thinking of you!
I love you.
Jag älskar dig.
Saying ‘I love you’ in Swedish carries the same weight as in all languages. Use this only if you’re sure and sincere about your feelings for your partner/friend.
5. Swedish Quotes about Love
You’re a love champ! You and your Swedish lover are getting along fantastically, your dates are awesome, your Valentine’s Day together was spectacular, and you’re very much in love. Good for you! Here are some beautiful phrases of endearment in Swedish that will remind him/her who is in your thoughts all the time.
6. Marriage Proposal Lines
Wow. Your Swedish lover is indeed the love of your life – congratulations! And may only happiness follow the two of you! In most traditions, the man asks the woman to marry; this is also the Swedish custom. Here are a few sincere and romantic lines that will help you to ask your lady-love for her hand in marriage.
7. 15 Most Common Break-Up Lines
Instead of moving towards marriage or a long-term relationship, you find that the spark is not there for you. That is a pity! But even though breaking up is never easy, continuing a bad or unfulfilling relationship would be even harder. Remember to be kind to the person you are going to say goodbye to; respect and sensitivity cost nothing. Here are some phrases to help you break up gently.
We need to talk.
Vi måste prata.
This is not really a break-up line, but it is a good conversation opener with a serious tone.
It’s not you. It’s me.
Det är inte du. Det är jag.
As long as you mean it, this can be a kind thing to say. It means that there’s nothing wrong with your Swedish lover as a person, but that you need something different from a relationship.
I’m just not ready for this kind of relationship.
Jag är bara inte redo för den här typen av relation.
Things moved a bit fast and got too intense, too soon? Painful as it is, honesty is often the best way to break up with somebody.
Let’s just be friends.
Låt oss bara vara vänner.
If the relationship was very intense, and you have sent many ‘i love u’ texts in Swedish, this would not be a good breakup line. Feelings need to calm down before you can be friends, if ever. If the relationship has not really developed yet, a friendship would be possible.
I think we need a break.
Jag tror att vi behöver en paus.
This is again honest, and to the point. No need to play with someone’s emotions by not letting them know how you feel. However, this could imply that you may fall in love with him/her again after a period of time, so use with discretion.
You deserve better.
Du förtjänar bättre.
Yes, he/she probably deserves a better relationship if your own feelings have cooled down.
We should start seeing other people.
Vi borde börja träffa andra människor.
This is probably the least gentle break-up phrase, so reserve it for a lover that doesn’t get the message!
I need my space.
Jag behöver mitt utrymme.
When a person is too clingy or demanding, this would be an suitable break-up phrase. It is another good go-to for that lover who doesn’t get the message!
I think we’re moving too fast.
Jag tycker vi går framåt för fort.
Say this if you want to keep the relationship, but need to slow down its progress a bit. It is also good if you feel things are getting too intense for your liking. However, it is not really a break-up line, so be careful not to mislead.
I need to focus on my career.
Jag måste fokusera på min karriär.
If you feel that you will not be able to give 100% in a relationship due to career demands, this is the phrase to use. It’s also good if you are unwilling to give up your career for a relationship.
I’m not good enough for you.
Jag är inte bra nog för dig.
Say this only if you really believe it, or you’ll end up sounding false. Break-ups are usually hard for the receiving party, so don’t insult him/her with an insincere comment.
I just don’t love you anymore.
Jag bara älskar inte dig längre.
This harsh line is sometimes the best one to use if you are struggling to get through to a stubborn, clingy lover who won’t accept your break up. Use it as a last resort. Then switch your phone off and block their emails!
We’re just not right for each other.
Vi är bara inte rätt för varandra.
If this is how you truly feel, you need to say it. Be kind, gentle and polite.
It’s for the best.
Det är för det bästa.
This phrase is called for if circumstances are difficult and the relationship is not progressing well. Love should enhance one’s life, not burden it!
We’ve grown apart.
Vi har vuxit isär.
Cross-cultural relationships are often long-distance ones, and it is easy to grow apart over time.
8. Will Falling in Love help you Learn Swedish faster?
Most people will agree that the above statement is a no-brainer – of course it will! Your body will be flooded with feel-good hormones, which are superb motivators for anything. SwedishPod101 is one of the best portals to help help make this a reality, so don’t hesitate to enroll now! Let’s quickly look at the reasons why falling in love will speed up your learning of the Swedish language.
Three Reasons Why Having a Lover will Help you Learn Swedish Faster!
1- Being in a love relationship with your Swedish speaking partner will immerse you in the culture
SwedishPod101 uses immersive methods and tools to teach you Swedish, but having a relationship with a native speaker will be a very valuable addition to your learning experience! You will gain exposure to their world, realtime and vividly, which will make the language come alive even more for you. The experience is likely to expand your world-view, which should motivate you to learn Swedish even faster.
2- Having your Swedish romantic partner will mean more opportunity to practice speaking
Nothing beats continuous practice when learning a new language. Your partner will probably be very willing to assist you in this, as your enhanced Swedish language skills will enhance the relationship. Communication is, after all, one of the most important pillars of a good partnership. Also, you will get to impress your lover with the knowledge gained through your studies – a win/win situation!
3- A supportive Swedish lover is likely to make a gentle, patient teacher and study aid!
With his/her heart filled with love and goodwill for you, your Swedish partner is likely to patiently and gently correct your mistakes when you speak. This goes not only for grammar, but also for accent and meaning. With his/her help, you could sound like a native in no time!
Three Reasons Why SwedishPod101 helps you learn Swedish Even Faster when you’re In Love
Start with a bonus, and download the ‘How To be a Good Lover Cheat Sheet’ for FREE! (Logged-In Member Only)
1- All the Resources and Materials Will Help Both of You
Falling in love with a man or woman speaking Swedish is an opportunity for both of you to learn a new language! For this reason, every lesson, transcript, vocabulary list, and resource at SwedishPod101 is translated into both English and Swedish. So, while your partner can help you learn Swedish faster, you can potentially also help him/her learn and master English!
2- Lessons Are Designed to Help You Understand and Engage with Swedish Culture
At SwedishPod101, our focus is to help our students learn practical vocabulary and phrases used by everyday people in Sweden. This means that, from your very first lesson, you can apply what you learn immediately! So, when your Swedish partner wants to go out to a restaurant, play Pokemon Go, or attend just about any social function, you have the vocabulary and phrases necessary to have a great time!
3- Access to Special Resources Dedicated to Romantic Swedish Phrases
You now have access to SwedishPod101’s specially-developed sections and tools to teach you love words, phrases, and cultural insights to help you find and attract your Swedish soul mate. A personal tutor will assist you to master these brilliantly – remember to invite him/her to your wedding!
Learning a language on your own or without traditional classroom instruction may seem quite daunting at first. What if you run into questions? How do you stay motivated and on track to achieving goals?
Don’t worry, not only is it possible to learn Swedish or any language without traditional classroom instruction: SwedishPod101 has created the world’s most advanced and extensive online language learning system. Not only is SwedishPod101 specifically designed to help you with learning a language on your own, it’s actually faster, more convenient, and less expensive than traditional classroom options!
Let’s look at some of the benefits of learning Swedish or any language alone.
Also, don’t forget to download your free cheat sheet – How to Improve Your Language Skills too!
3 Reasons to Learn a Language Alone
1. Learn at Your Own Pace and On Your Schedule
In today’s fast-paced world, there just isn’t time for traditional classroom instruction. Between getting to class and studying on some professor or teacher’s schedule, traditional classroom learning is simply impossible to fit in. But when you learn Swedish alone, you can study in bed if you like and whenever suits your schedule best, making it far easier to actually reach your goal of learning and mastering the language.
2. Learning a Language on Your Own Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Speaking in front of a class, pop quizzes, and tests are just a few of the stressors you will encounter when you learn a language in a traditional classroom setting. Specifically, these are external stressors that often derail most people’s dream of learning a new language. But when you learn Swedish alone, there are no external stressors. Without the external stress and anxiety, it becomes much easier and more exciting to study Swedish and reach your very own goals—all on your own!
3. Learning Swedish Alone Helps Improve Cognitive Function and Overall Success
Learning a language on your own is indeed more challenging in some ways than being taught in a traditional classroom setting. In fact, while classroom instruction requires more rote memorization and following instructions, studying a language on your own requires more problem-solving and higher cognitive function to self-teach lessons and hit goals. So while it’s more challenging and requires higher levels of cognition, teaching yourself a language pays dividends throughout life by better preparing you for social/work opportunities that arise.
How to Learn a Language on Your Own with SwedishPod101
1. Access to the World’s Largest Collection of Swedish Audio & Video Lessons
The best way to learn a language on your own is to study from native speaking instructors. Ideally, you want audio and/or video lessons that teach vocabulary, grammar, and provide actual Swedish conversations and dialogue to help you with pronunciation. SwedishPod101 has hundreds of hours of HD audio and video lessons created by real Swedish instructors and every lesson is presented by professional Swedish actors for perfect pronunciation. Plus, all lessons can be accessed 24/7 via any mobile device with Internet access. And, if you download the PDF versions of each lesson, you can even study without Internet access once the lesson is stored on your device!
2. “Learning Paths” with Swedish Courses Based Upon Your Exact Needs & Goals
Although SwedishPod101 has more than thousands of video and audio lessons, you need not review each and every one to learn the language. In fact, SwedishPod101 has developed a feature called “Learning Paths”. You simply tell us your goals and we will identify the best courses and study plan to help you reach them in the shortest time possible. So even though you are technically learning a language on your own, our team is always here to help and make sure you reach your goals FAST!
3. Advanced Learning Tools Reduce Learning Time and Boost Retention
When you have the right tools and Swedish learning resources, it’s actually easy to teach yourself a language! In the past 10+ years, SwedishPod101 has developed, tested, and refined more than 20 advanced learning tools to boost retention and reduce learning time, including:
Spaced Repetition Flashcards
Line-by-Line Dialogue Breakdown
Review Quizzes
Voice Recording Tools to Help Perfect Pronunciation
Armed with our growing collection of advanced learning tools, it’s truly a breeze to learn Swedish alone and reach your goals!
Conclusion
Learning a language on your own is not only possible, it’s actually easier and more beneficial for you than traditional classroom instruction. In fact, when you learn Swedish on your own you can study at your own pace, eliminate stress, and actually increase cognitive function.
SwedishPod101 is the world’s most advanced online language learning system and a great resource to help you teach yourself a new language. With the world’s largest collection of HD audio and video lessons, more than 20 advanced learning tools, and customized “Learning Paths”, SwedishPod101 makes learning a new language easier, more convenient, and less expensive than traditional classroom instruction.
And the best part is: With SwedishPod101, you can study in bed, your car, or wherever you have a few spare minutes of time. Create your Free Lifetime Account now and get a FREE ebook to help “kickstart” your dream of learning a language on your own below!
Yes, even beginners can quickly learn conversational Swedish well enough to carry on real conversations with native speakers. Of course, beginners won’t be able to carry a conversation the same way they could in their native language. But, just knowing a few tips like which questions to ask to keep a conversation going are all you need to speak and interact with real native speakers! But before we get to specific suggestions, let’s first take a closer look at how having real Swedish conversations is so vital to your mastery of the language.
Learning to Carry a Conversation is Vital to Mastery of Any Language
Communicating with other people is the very point of language and conversation is almost second nature in our native tongue. For beginners or anyone learning a new language, conversations aren’t easy at all and even simple Swedish greetings can be intimidating and awkward.
Avoid Awkward Silences: Nothing kills a conversation faster than long periods of awkward silence, so you need practice and specific strategies to avoid them.
Improve the Flow of Conversation to Make a Better Impression: When you know what to say to keep a conversation going, communication becomes much easier and you make a better impression on your listener.
Master the Language Faster: Nothing will help you learn to speak Swedish faster and truly master the language than having real conversations with native speakers. Conversations quickly expose you to slang, cultural expressions, and vocabulary that force you to absorb and assimilate information faster than any educational setting—and that’s a great thing!
But how can you possibly have real conversations with real Swedish people if you are just starting out?
3 Conversation Strategies for Beginners
1. Ask Questions to Keep a Conversation Going
For beginners and even more advanced speakers, the key is to learn to ask questions to keep a conversation going. Of course, they can’t be just random questions or else you may confuse the listener. But, by memorizing a few key questions and the appropriate time to use them, you can easily carry a conversation with minimal vocabulary or experience. And remember, the more Swedish conversations you have, the quicker you will learn and master the language!
2. Learn Core Vocabulary Terms as Quickly as Possible
You don’t need to memorize 10,000’s of words to learn conversational Swedish. In fact, with just a couple hundred Swedish words you could have a very basic Swedish conversation. And by learning maybe 1,000-2,000 words, you could carry a conversation with a native speaker about current events, ordering in restaurants, and even getting directions.
3. Study Videos or Audio Lessons that You Can Play and Replay Again and Again
If you want to know how to carry a conversation in Swedish, then you need exposure to native speakers—and the more the better. Ideally, studying video or audio lessons is ideal because they provide contextualized learning in your native language and you can play them again and again until mastery.
SwedishPod101 Makes it Easier and More Convenient Than Ever to Learn Conversational Swedish
For more than 10 years, SwedishPod101 has been helping students learn to speak Swedish by creating the world’s most advanced online language learning system. Here are just a few of the specific features that will help you learn conversational Swedish fast using our proven system:
The Largest Collection of HD Video & Audio Lessons from Real Swedish Instructors:SwedishPod101 instructors have created hundreds of video and audio lessons that you can play again and again. And the best part is: They don’t just teach you Swedish vocabulary and grammar, they are designed to help you learn to speak Swedish and teach you practical everyday topics like shopping, ordering, etc!
Pronunciation Tools: Use this feature to record and compare yourself with native speakers to quickly improve your pronunciation and fluency!
2000 Common Swedish Words: Also known as our Core List, these 2,000 words are all you need to learn to speak fluently and carry a conversation with a native speaker!
In all, more than 20 advanced learning tools help you quickly build vocabulary and learn how to carry a conversation with native speakers—starting with your very first lesson.
Conclusion
Although it may seem intimidating for a beginner, the truth is that it is very easy to learn conversational Swedish. By learning a few core vocabulary terms and which questions to ask to keep a conversation going, just a little practice and exposure to real Swedish conversations or lessons is all it really takes. SwedishPod101 has created the world’s largest online collection of video and audio lessons by real instructors plus loads of advanced tools to help you learn to speak Swedish and carry a conversation quickly.
Act now and we’ll also include a list of the most commonly used questions to keep a conversation going so you can literally get started immediately!
Today, classrooms are no longer the only or even best place to learn a new language like Swedish. More and more people are finding that they can easily learn a language just about anywhere they have a few minutes of spare time, including their daily commute to work. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the average American spends over 50 minutes a day commuting to and from work, or over 300 hours a year.
Rethinking Your Daily Commute to Work
But rather than simply sitting in traffic and wasting the time, you can instead use your daily commute to literally learn Swedish in just a few short months! SwedishPod101 has developed specialized learning tools that you can use on your commute to work (and home again) to master the language in your spare time. Keep reading to learn how to get your free audiobook to use on your next commute so you can see for yourself how easy it is to transform “dead time” into realizing your dream of learning a new language!
But before we look at how to transform your commute home into a mini-classroom, let’s take a closer look at 4 reasons why traditional classroom settings just aren’t the best option for most people in today’s fast-paced world.
Difficulty Getting to and From Class
Learning on Someone Else’s Schedule
Very Expensive and May Cost $1,000’s to Complete
Can Take Years to Finally Complete Classes and Learn the Language
The simple truth is that traditional classroom instruction is simply not a viable option for most people in today’s very fast-paced, time-starved world. Now let’s examine how you can learn a language faster, more easily, and at far less expense than traditional classes—all during your commute to work and back home again!
3 Reasons Your Daily Commute Can Help You Master a Language
1. The Average Commute Time is More than 300 Hours Per Year
Between the commute to work and getting back home again, over 6 hours a week is completely wasted and not helping you reach any goals or objectives. But thanks to online language learning platforms with audiobooks and other resources that you can access during your commute, you can easily transform wasted time into tangible progress towards learning a new language. With over 300 hours available annually, your daily commute could provide you with enough time to literally master a new language each and every year!
2. Increase Your Earning Potential While Commuting to Work
How would you like to transform all those spare commuting hours each week into more money for a new car, house, or even a dream vacation? According to research, someone making $30,000 per year can boost their annual income by $600 or more per year by learning a second language. Added up over the course of a lifetime, you can boost your total earnings by $70,000 or more while achieving your dream of learning a new language during your daily commute!
How? From work-at-home translation jobs to working overseas, there are many ways to leverage your second language into more money in your bank account! So instead of wasting your precious time, you can make your commute more productive and profitable and the more languages you learn, the higher your income potential.
3. Repetition is Key to Mastering a New Language
Not sure if it’s practical to learn another language while commuting to and from work each day? Well not only is it possible—learning in your car on the way to and from work each day can actually help you learn and master Swedish or any language much faster! The simple truth is that repetition is absolutely vital to truly internalizing and mastering any language. So, if you listen to audiobooks or even audio lessons on your commute to work and then repeat the same lesson on your commute home, the information is more likely to be “locked-in” to your long-term memory!
5 Ways SwedishPod101 Makes It Easy to Learn a Language On Your Commute
SwedishPod101 has been helping people just like yourself learn and master Swedish in the comfort of their home, during their daily commute, or any place they have a few minutes of spare time. Here are five features provided by SwedishPod101 that make it easy to learn a new language while commuting to and from work:
1. The Largest Collection of Audio Lessons on Planet by Native Speaking Instructors
Every single week, SwedishPod101 creates new audio lessons by native speaking instructors. All lessons are short, to the point, and guaranteed to improve your mastery of Swedish.
2. Word of the Day
Simply exposing yourself to new information and vocabulary terms helps increase your fluency and mastery of Swedish. So every single day, SwedishPod101 adds a new Word of the Day for you to learn and memorize during your commute.
3. Daily Dose Mini-Lessons
Have a short commute to work but still want to make progress towards learning and mastering Swedish? Not a problem! Our Daily Dose Mini-Lessons are 1-minute or less and designed to improve your grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation.
4. All Content Available on a Convenient Mobile App
You don’t need a PC or tablet to learn Swedish during your daily commute. At SwedishPod101, all of our lessons, tools, and resources are available 24/7 via our Mobile App. That means you can access all of our audio lessons and other tools during your commute to work or any time you have a few spare moments!
5. Audiobooks and Other Supplemental Resources
In addition to the world’s largest online collection of HD audio lessons, SwedishPod101 has also created several audiobooks to enhance your understanding and make it more convenient than ever to learn a language during your commute!
Conclusion
The average commute time of most Americans is over 300 hours each year and it’s the perfect opportunity to learn and master a new language. In fact, you can use the “dead time” during your daily commute to learn a new language and potentially boost your lifetime earnings by up to $70,000 or more! Whatever your motivation, SwedishPod101 has the tools and resources necessary to help you learn a new language each year during your commute to and from work. Act now and we’ll even provide you with a free audiobook to try out on your next commute!
All social interactions have to begin somehow, and the most common way to start a conversation in Swedish is to exchange greeting phrases. So how do you say hello in Swedish? Well, the most common Swedish word for hello is hej, though there are several more ways of saying hello in Swedish, both informal and formal.
For example:
Hallå
Hej hej
God morgon
God eftermiddag
God kväll
Tjena
Tja
How do you know which of these greetings to use and when? Don’t worry—we’ve sorted it out for you.
All of these words mean hello, but some are informal, others are formal, some are slang, and others are used only in specific situations. The choice of a particular greeting phrase in Swedish can signify social status, how close you are as friends, and what roles you have in relation to each other.
Are you greeting a colleague, a manager, a close friend, or a family member? Swedes like to be informal and create a nice, easygoing atmosphere. For this reason, it can be difficult to decode the nuances and choose which greeting to use.
In this article, we’ll outline various ways to say hello and goodbye in Swedish, and guide you through how and when to use them. Are you ready? Let’s get started.
1. Saying Hello in Swedish: Things You Should Know
Whether greeting a friend, a stranger, a work colleague, or a manager, Swedes don’t use titles such as Mr., Mrs., Miss, or even the last name. In Sweden, everyone greets each other on a first name basis, even in more formal settings. Swedes simply like to create a nice atmosphere, and are very non-hierarchical and laidback.
When you meet someone you don’t know well or who you’re meeting for the first time, in Sweden it’s common to shake hands. But between friends and colleagues (and sometimes even between the manager and employees!) a hej, or “hello,” and a hug is a common way to greet each other. Hugs are nice, and so are Swedes!
Now, let’s look at how to say hello in Swedish when answering the phone, and what else to expect during greetings.
1- Answering a Phone Call
When answering the phone in Swedish, it usually suffices to say a simple Hallå! or “Hello!” and then to present yourself with your first name:
Hallå! Det här är Stina.
“Hello! This is Stina.”
Hej! Det är Anna, hur mår du?
“Hello! It’s Anna, how are you?”
Det är bra! Hur mår du?
“All good! How are you?”
Swedes usually answer the phone at work by using a greeting phrase, like Hallå! (“Hello!”), their full name, and the company name:
Hej! Du talar med Kalle Persson på Kalles företag.
“Hello! You are talking to Kalle Persson at Kalle’s Company.”
They can also answer by saying their name and the company name like this:
Kalle Persson, Kalles företag.
“Kalle Persson, Kalle’s Company.”
When the call has been answered, Swedes often add another hello to the conversation before continuing:
Hej! Du talar med Kalle Persson på Kalles företag.
“Hello! You are talking to Kalle Persson at Kalle’s Company.”
Hej! Det här är Anna Karlsson på Annas företag.
“Hello! This is Anna Karlsson at Anna’s Company.”
Hej hej! Vad trevlig att höra ifrån dig!
“Hello Hello! How nice to hear from you!”
2- Hello, Hello
It’s common for Swedes to repeat the greeting phrase several times, like in the example above. For example, Hej, hej (“Hello, hello” ) or tjena, tjena (a more informal “Hello, hello”). Sometimes Swedes also repeat the greeting word twice when initiating a call.
Hallå, hallå!
“Hello, hello!”
Hallå, hallå! Det är Anna här, hur mår du?
“Hello, hello! Anna here, how are you?”
2. Hello in Swedish: Formal vs. Informal
1- Formal (Work)
How do Swedish people greet each other in the workplace?
Using slang at work isn’t a good idea in Sweden. A happy Shobre, which is slang for “What’s up?” can create a bad atmosphere. This is because not everyone is familiar with slang, and the communication in the workplace and between colleagues in Sweden is slightly more formal than between friends.
When you get to work, you can use a Hej, hej (“Hello, hello” ) if you don’t work in a more formal workplace like a bank. If you work in a more formal workplace, it might be better to say Hej (“Hello”), God morgon (“Good morning”), God dag (“Good day”), or God eftermiddag (“Good afternoon”).
2- Informal (Friends)
When close friends say hello in Swedish, slang is often used.
Depending on how close you are, an informal hello in Swedish can be tjena, tjenamors, tja, tjingtjong, hallå hallå, or even a shobre. Which greeting phrase you choose simply depends on how informal or playful you are with each other. A “hej” or “hej, hej” always works.
Some friends have their own expressions and greetings, such as Tjena mittbena! (“Hello middle legs”), Hej din gamla älg! (“Hello you old moose!”), or Tjena, tjena, hallå! (“Hello” three times in three different ways).
There are countless variations of greeting phrases between friends, and as long as everyone involved is in consensus about what you mean, almost anything is okay.
3. The Most Common Swedish Greeting Words
As you understand, there are countless ways to say hello in Swedish. Some can be used everywhere, such as Hej, hej, while others are linked to different social contexts. Some of the most common and versatile informal and formal ways to say hello are:
Informal hellos:
Hej
Hej hej
Hejsan
Tja
Tjena
Morsning
Tjenamors
Tjing
Tjingtjong
Haj
Tjohoo
Tjänis
Hallå
Hejsan
Hellos that work in all contexts:
Hej
Hej hej
Hallå
Hejsan
4. How to Say “How are You?” in Swedish
Another useful phrase to know is “Hello, how are you?” in Swedish.
It’s good to know that if a Swede asks you how you are, they really want to know how you are and aren’t just being polite. They also expect you to ask them how they are and listen to their reply.
In Swedish culture, the question Hur mår du? (“How are you?” ) is an important part of the conversation. All conversation beginnings include asking, waiting for the answer, and then returning the question:
Hej!
“Hello!”
Hej, hej!
“Hello, hello!”
Hur mår du?
“How are you?”
Allt är bra, tack! Hur mår du själv?
“All is good, thanks! How are you?”
Det är bra tack!
“All is good, thanks!”
You can also say Hur är det? (“How are things?”), which is just as common.
Hej.
“Hello.”
Hejsan, hur är allt?
“Hi, how are things?”
Fullt upp som vanligt. Hur är allt med dig?
“Busy as always. How are things with you?”
Bara bra, tack!
“It’s fine, thanks!”
5. Slang and Funny Expressions
Yo, helu, and halu are some funny and slightly different ways of saying hello and are all fairly common. Finnish Swedes, for example, use moj and mojn. On the other hand, shobre and shululu, which mean “Hello” or “What’s up?”, are mainly considered a bit “ghetto,” but are commonly used between friends.
For example, an initial conversation might sound like this:
Shobre!
“Hello!”
Shobre, vad händer yao?
“Hello, what’s up with you?”
6. Longer Swedish Greeting Phrases
In addition to the shorter greeting phrases, there’s a long line of more informal and pretty funny phrases used to say hello in Swedish. These include: Morsning Korsning (“Hello Crossing”), Hallå där, köp blåbär! (“Hello there, buy blueberries!”), Hej i lingonskogen! (“Hello in the lingonberry forest!”), or Hallå din gamla räv! (“Hello you old fox!”).
Other examples of longer greeting phrases in Swedish are:
Hur är läget?
Informal “How are you?”
Hur mår du?
“How are you?”
Det är trevligt att träffa dig igen.
“It’s nice to meet you again.”
Hur är din dag?
“How is your day?”
Det var länge sedan!
“Haven’t seen you in a long time!”
Hur har du haft det?
“How have you been?”
Saying hello in Swedish can also use a play on words. For example, a common way of playfully saying hello among really close friends is: Tack och hej, leverpastej! (“Thank you goodbye, liver pie!”).
Swedes love borrowing words and expressions from other languages, but prefer to pronounce them in Swedish. One can say that Swedes “Swedify” any words they like and reuse them for their purposes.
Hello, come and help me?
Say what? Yes, Swedish is sometimes a little confusing. When someone says Hej, kom och hjälp mig (“Hello, come and help me”), they don’t mean hello or that they need help. What they mean is that something is ugly, bad, a mess, or bonkers.
Hon såg ut som hej kom och hjälp mig på festen igår!
“She looked like hello come and help me at the party yesterday!”
(“She looked like a complete mess at the party yesterday!” )
Oj! Det låter inte bra.
“Oops! That does not sound good.”
7. Saying Goodbye in Swedish
There are several ways of saying goodbye to someone in Swedish, but luckily not as many as there are for saying hello. The most common informal goodbye phrases are Hej hej and Hej då.
In Sweden, there are also local varieties, whereof Hare gött and Ajöken are quite common. Also, Vi ses! (“I’ll see you!” ) and Vi hörs! (“We’ll keep in touch!” ) are very common ways of saying goodbye in any situation.
For more formal ways of saying goodbye, the Hej, hej and Hej då always work well. For even more formal endings to a conversation, you can use God morgon (“Good morning”), God dag (“Good day”), God kväll or God afton (“Good evening”).
8. Conclusion
Online learning systems abound, and it’s not easy to know which one will suit your needs best. This means you have to be careful and select a system with a good reputation, and that has proven longevity. SwedishPod101, which is part of InnovativeLearning.com, ticks all the boxes! With millions of lesson downloads and over a decade of teaching, we can say with confidence that this is one of the best language learning systems on the web. Why is it such an excellent system? Let us count the ways…
1- Video Presentations with Native Speakers
Friendly native Swedish speakers guide you step-by-step through the process of learning vocabulary, phrases and much more. They demonstrate correct pronunciation and emphasis of the words, so as to ensure that you speak like a native when you’re done! Watching the enthusiastic tutors makes not only for a pleasant and more personal experience – it also allows you to copy mouth and lip movements. It’s like learning from your own Swedish friend in your own home!
2- Superb Flexibility with 24/7 Access to Learning Material – Anywhere and on Any Device connected to the Internet!
PC, Android, iPhone, iPad, laptop, even TV – whatever device you prefer! Go online with our FREE app to do your lessons, no matter where you are or which device you are using. All you need is a good internet connection to log on and learn to speak Swedish at your own pace, in your own place!
3- Pronunciation Tool Ensures You Really Speak Swedish!
In any language, correct pronunciation is often crucial. The nuances in language require this, or you could find yourself saying things you don’t mean. You will find our Pronunciation Tool invaluable to wrap your mouth around the correct way to greet in Swedish!
4- Our Content is Always New and Dynamic
Every week, new audio and video lessons are uploaded, so as to keep our promise that learning Swedish with SwedishPod101 is always fun and exciting! In addition, you will get access to bonus material and basic Swedish phrases. These are a fantastic way to build your comprehension and speaking skills!
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Most learning activities are more fun when you’re not doing them alone. For this reason we developed Premium PLUS, which gives you a personal tutor – 24/7! Also, this way you’re likely to learn to speak Swedish much faster!
So, if our lively Swedish blog is not enough for you, just upgrade to Premium PLUS to get your very own teacher. Personalised goals and lessons based on your needs, assessment of your progress, non-stop feedback and many other super features makes this a very attractive option.
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Most everyone is familiar with this day, as it is celebrated nearly everywhere the world. Yet, when exactly is April Fools’ Day? And where did April Fools come from? April Fools’ Day is observed on April 1st every year. This day of jokes and pranks is believed to have stemmed from the 16th-century calendar change in France, when New Year’s Day was moved from April 1 to January 1. This action was taken due to the adoption of the Gregorian calendar.
However, a few people were resistant to the calendar change, so they continued to observe New Year’s Day on April 1st, rather than the new date. They were referred to as the “April Fools”, and others started playing mocking tricks on them. This custom endured, and is practiced to this day around the world!
1. Top One Million Words You Need to Know for April Fools’ Day
Do you want to know how to say April Fools’ Day in Swedish? Well, there are millions of ways and words, but here are the top one million Swedish words you really need to know! Simply click this link. Here are some of them you will find useful:
English – Target – Roman
joke – skämta
funny – rolig
surprise – överraska
sneaky – lömsk
prankster – upptågsmakare
prank – spratt
humor – humor
fool – dumbom
lie – ljuga
deceptive – vilseledande
play a joke – spela ett spratt
2. Swedish Phrases You Can Use on April Fools’ Day
Don’t limit yourself to practical jokes – use these April Fools’ phrases in Swedish to prank your favorite Swedish friend or colleague!
I learned Swedish in 1 month.
Jag lärde mig svenska på 1 månad.
All classes for today got canceled.
Alla dagens lektioner har blivit inställda.
I’m sorry, but I’ve just broken your favorite pair of glasses.
Jag är ledsen, men jag har just haft sönder dina favoritglasögon.
Someone has just hit your car.
Någon har precis krockat med din bil.
I’m getting married.
Jag ska gifta mig.
You won a free ticket.
Du vann en fribiljett.
I saw your car being towed.
Jag såg din bil bli bogserad.
They’re giving away free gift cards in front of the building.
De ger bort gratis presentkort framför byggnaden.
A handsome guy is waiting for you outside.
En snygg kille väntar på dig utanför.
A beautiful lady asked me to give this phone number to you.
En vacker kvinna bad mig att ge det här telefonnumret till dig.
Can you come downstairs? I have something special for you.
Kan du komma ner? Jag har något speciellt till dig.
Thank you for your love letter this morning. I never could have guessed your feelings.
Tack för ditt kärleksbrev imorse. Jag hade ingen aning om att du kände så här.
Choose your victims carefully, though; the idea is to get them to laugh with you, not to hurt their feelings or humiliate them in front of others. Be extra careful if you choose to play a prank on your boss – you don’t want to antagonize them with an inappropriate joke.
3. Some of the Coolest April Fools’ Pranks To Play on Anybody
Right, now that you know the top million April Fools’ words in Swedish, let’s look at some super pranks and tricks to play on friends, colleagues and family. Some April Fools ideas never grow old, while new ones are born every year.
Never joke in such a way that it hurts anyone, or humiliates them badly in front of others – the idea is for everybody to laugh and enjoy the fun! Respect is still key, no matter what day of the year it is.
1- Infestation
This trick is so simple, yet so creepy, it’s almost unbelievable. Take black paper, cut out the silhouette of a giant cockroach, a spider or another insect, and stick it inside the lampshade of a table lamp. When the lamp is switched on, it will look like a monstrous insect is sitting inside the lampshade. Or, get a whole lot of realistic-looking plastic insects, and spread them over a colleague’s desk and chair, or, at home, over the kids’ beds etc. Creep-factor: stellar.
2- Which One Doesn’t Fit?
Put the photo of a celebrity or a notorious politician in a frame, and take it to work on April Fools’ Day. Hang the photo on the staff picture wall, and wait. You’ll be surprised how long it can take for people to notice that one picture doesn’t fit.
3- Something Weird in the Restroom
At work, replace the air freshener in the restroom with something noxious like insect killer, oven cleaner or your own odious mixture in a spray bottle. Be sure to cover the bottle’s body so no one suspects a swap.
Or paint a bar of soap with clear nail polish, and leave it at the hand wash basin. It will not lather.
Or, if your workplace’s restroom has partitioned toilets with short doors, arrange jeans or trousers and shoes on all but one of the toilet covers, so it looks like every stall is occupied. Now wait for complaints, and see how long it takes for someone to figure out the April Fools’ Day prank. You’ll probably wish you had a camera inside the restroom. But, unless you don’t mind getting fired, don’t put your own recording device in there!
4- Call Me Funny
Prepare and print out a few posters with the following instructions: Lion Roar Challenge! Call this number – 123-456-7890 – and leave your best lion’s roar as voicemail! Best roarer will be announced April 10 in the cafeteria. Prize: $100. (Lion’s roar is just an example; you can use any animal call, or even a movie character’s unique sound, such as Chewbacca from Star Wars. The weirder, the funnier. Obviously!) Put the posters up in the office where most of the staff is likely to see them. Now wait for the owner of the number to visit you with murderous intent. Have a conciliatory gift ready that’s not a prank.
5- Minty Cookies
This is another simple but hugely effective prank – simply separate iced cookies, scrape off the icing, and replace it with toothpaste. Serve during lunch or tea break at work, or put in your family’s lunch boxes. Be sure to take photos of your victim’s faces when they first bite into your April Fools’ cookies.
6- Wild Shopping
At your local grocer, place a realistic-looking plastic snake or spider among the fresh vegetables. Now wait around the corner for the first yell.
7- The Oldest Trick in the Book
Don’t forget probably the oldest, yet very effective April Fools’ joke in the book – smearing hand cream or Vaseline on a door handle that most staff, family or friends are likely to use. Yuck to the max!
8- Sneeze On Me
Another golden oldie is also gross, yet harmless and utterly satisfying as a prank. Fill a small spray bottle that you can easily conceal with water. Walk past a friend, colleague or one of your kids, and fake a sneeze while simultaneously spraying them with a bit of water. Expect to be called a totally disgusting person. Add a drop of lovely smelling essential oil to the water for extra confusion.
9- Word Play Repairs
Put a fresh leek in the hand wash basin at home or work, and then tell your housemates or colleagues this: “There’s a huge leak in the restroom/bathroom basin, it’s really serious. Please can someone go have a look?!” Expect exasperation and smiles all around. Note that this prank is only likely to work where people understand English well.
10- Scary Face
Print out a very scary face on an A4 sheet of paper, and place it in a colleague’s, or one of your kid’s drawers, so it’s the first thing they see when they open the drawer. You may not be very popular for a while.
11- Wake Up To Madness
Put foamy shaving cream, or real whipped cream on your hand, and wake your kid up by tickling their nose with it. As long as they get the joke, this could be a wonderful and fun way to start April Fools’ Day.
12- Computer Prank
This one’s fabulous, if you have a bit of time to fiddle with a colleague, friend or your kid’s computer. It is most effective on a computer where most of the icons they use are on the desktop background itself (as opposed to on the bottom task bar).
Take and save a screenshot of their desktop with the icons. Set this screenshot as their background image. Now delete all the working icons. When they return to their computer, wait for the curses when no amount of clicking on the icons works.
13- Monster Under the Cup
This one will also work well anywhere people meet. Take a paper cup, and write the following on it in black pen: “Danger! Don’t lift, big spider underneath.” Place it upside-down on prominent flat surface, such as a kitchen counter, a colleague’s desk or a restaurant table. Expect some truly interesting responses.
14- Prank Door
Write in large letters on a large and noticeable piece of paper: PUSH. Tape this notice on a door that should be pulled to open, and watch the hilarious struggle of those clever souls who actually read signs.
4. How Can SwedishPod101 Make Your April Fools’ Day Special?
If you happen to visit Sweden, or if you work for any Swedish company, knowing the above Swedish prankster phrases can really lighten up your day. Showing you have a sense of humor can go a long way to cement good relationships in any situation. These phrases are at your disposal for free, as well as are these 100 core Swedish words, which you will learn how to pronounce perfectly.
Also, don’t stop at learning April Fools’ phrases in Swedish – bone up your Swedish language skills with these FREE key phrases. Yes, SwedishPod101 doesn’t joke when it comes to effective, fun and easy learning.
Now, as a bonus, test our super-learning technology, and learn the Top 1000 most useful phrases in Swedish below! But that’s not all. Read on to learn how you can be eligible for large enrollment discounts at SwedishPod101.
5. Top 1000 Most Useful Phrases in Swedish – testing new technology
Help us by being a language guinea pig! Listen to this video above with embedded cutting-edge, frequency-based learning technology that enables you to learn large amounts of data in record time.
Note: This technology is in beta-phase of development, and we invite your input for fine-tuning.
To participate: Watch the video for instructions, and leave a comment to rate it. Your comment will make you eligible for large enrollment-fee discounts. To watch the video, please click the play button.
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