älska — meaning in English: love

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for love

motivation

veta

lila

dröm

älska

Skip this question

🎓

Learn Swedish for free

Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.

Start learning →

Already have an account? Log in

neutral very common

Usage

Native Swedish speakers often use 'älska' in both romantic and platonic contexts. For instance, you might hear it during heartfelt moments, like when someone expresses their affection for a partner or when parents tell their children how much they love them.

Synonyms & nuances

'Älska' translates closely to 'love' in English, but it can carry a stronger, more passionate connotation compared to 'tycka om,' which means 'like.' Choose 'älska' when you want to express deeper feelings of affection.

Culture

'Älska' has roots in Old Norse, reflecting a deep-seated cultural appreciation for love in Swedish society. In Sweden, love is celebrated not just romantically, but also in friendships and familial bonds, showcasing a holistic view of affection.

FAQ

Q.What is the correct usage of 'älska' in a sentence?

'Älska' can be used in various contexts, like 'Jag älskar dig' (I love you) or 'Jag älskar att läsa' (I love to read). Remember that it conveys a strong emotion, so use it in appropriate situations.

Q.Can 'älska' be used for friends?

'Älska' can indeed be used for friends, but it’s often reserved for close, affectionate relationships. For friendships, you might want to use 'tycka om' to express fondness without the intensity of 'älska.'

Q.Are there any common mistakes with 'älska'?

One common mistake is using 'älska' too casually. While it's a versatile word, overusing it in less intense situations can dilute its meaning. Make sure the context matches the depth of your feelings.

Learn swedish with Maspeak →

Swedish Vocabulary