vara — meaning in English: be

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när

vara

väg

intellektuell

beslutsam

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neutral very common

Usage

Native Swedish speakers use the word 'vara' in everyday conversation to describe existence or states of being. For example, you might hear it in a sentence like 'Jag vill vara lycklig' (I want to be happy), commonly used in casual discussions about feelings or aspirations.

Synonyms & nuances

While 'vara' directly translates to 'be,' other verbs like 'bli' (to become) convey a sense of transformation. You would choose 'vara' when discussing a static state, while 'bli' is better suited for changes or developments.

Culture

'Vara' has roots in Old Norse, where it meant 'to be' or 'to exist.' This word is fundamental to the Swedish language, appearing in a variety of contexts from casual conversations to philosophical discussions about existence. Interestingly, the verb has also influenced expressions in Swedish culture, like 'vara sig själv' (to be oneself), emphasizing authenticity.

FAQ

Q.How do you conjugate 'vara' in different tenses?

'Vara' is an irregular verb in Swedish. In the present tense, it is 'är' (is), in the past tense, it becomes 'var' (was), and the supine form for perfect tenses is 'varit' (been).

Q.What are some common phrases using 'vara'?

Common phrases include 'att vara glad' (to be happy), 'vara med' (to be involved), and 'vara tyst' (to be quiet). These expressions are frequently used in daily conversations.

Q.Are there any common mistakes with the usage of 'vara'?

A common mistake is confusing 'vara' with 'bli' when trying to express a change of state. Remember to use 'vara' for describing states of being and 'bli' for transformations.

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Swedish Vocabulary