20 Swedish Slang Words You Need To Know

Aaah Sweden, with its pretty red houses, its breathtaking northern lights and its frigid climate made up for by its warm hospitality. Travelling to this country was actually a breath of fresh air, as I fell in love with Swedish Lapland. Plus, even though you know that the locals speak English very well, I always find it interesting and fun to learn more about a country’s culture, and especially its slang. So here’s a little guide to some of my favorite slang words and phrases!

Save it for later!

Useful and popular slang words/expressions

This time, I can’t say I knew the language, as I’d never traveled to Northern Europe before and didn’t know a single Swedish word. And although I have many friends from that continent, their English is so good that I’ve never really had the opportunity to hear them speak in their mother tongue. Nevertheless, as I like to immerse myself in a culture, I did some research into the most popular or useful slang used in the country. As there are so many, I’ve only selected my favorites, so without further ado, here’s my little crash course in Swedish!

1. Sockergris

Is there a better way to describe myself and my craving for dessert at the end of a meal? I don’t think so… ! For those wondering, the term is used to describe “someone with a sweet tooth”. The literal translation, however, is sugar pig, so I don’t know how to take it, but that’s me!

2. Tuben

If you’ve ever been to Sweden, you’ll probably be able to guess this one. What if I told you that the word derives from Tunnelbanan? Yes, that’s right, it’s actually slang for “subway” and when you get the chance to explore Stockholm’s wonderful underground art, I’m pretty sure you’ll see underground tunnels in a totally different way.

3. Besserwisser

There’s a little hint thanks to “wisser”, which becomes “wiser” if you subtract the “s”, but bear in mind that this isn’t a very cute word, nor one you’ll take as a compliment. To put it in context, just know that it’s the word a person would say about someone else when they think that person is just a smartass or a “know-it-all”!

4. Brun som en pepparkaka 

Every time you go on vacation and come back with a nice tan! Then one of your friends will say brun som en pepparkaka – you’re as brown as a gingerbread cookie, which means you have a “very nice tan”.

5. Tja!

Used to greet in informal situations and translates as “hey”, “hi”, “hello”.

6. Bre

The slang word used to address your “bro”!

7. Fett

Actually, the word means “fat”, but the trick is that when used as a slang word, it has a totally different meaning: you’ll then use it to say that something is “great”, “very”, “cool”, “awesome”. I guess you just have to pay attention to the context and you’ll be fine!

8. Sjukt

Another term you can use to mean that something is “crazy” (in a shocking or positive way), “very” (good when it comes to food, for example). The point is, it can be used both positively and negatively.

9. Fika

I couldn’t leave out this cultural word, and I’m sure you’ve heard it before if you’ve ever visited the country. It’s like a tradition in Sweden, as the translation meaning “having a cup of coffee together” (usually with some kind of pastry) is also a way of inviting your friends or family over and having a chat.

10. Att ha tomtar på loftet

This idiomatic expression is unique and slightly offensive, so remember it before you use it (or don’t use it). Its literal translation: to have gnomes in the attic or, more understandably, “this person is crazy, insane”, but it can also be said of someone a little odd or eccentric. I suppose it depends on the person saying it.

11. Sitta med skägget i brevlådan

Or to sit with your beard in the mailbox to describe “someone caught in the act” and therefore in an embarrassing or awkward position! Why the beard? Maybe it comes from Viking times, just kidding!

12. Bärs

Slang word for the golden drink or “beer”.

13. Skål

Remember I told you that one of my favorite things about studying languages was how to say “cheers“? Well, here we are! If you’re going out with your Swedish friends and want to impress them a bit, say Skål while clinking your glasses!

14. Bakis

While we’re on the subject of alcohol, if you hear someone say “I’m bakis”, know that they may have partied a little too hard last night and have a “hangover”.

15. Kosing

If you forget your wallet, you’ll probably need kosing or “money”.

16. Chilla

An easy one because it means “to chill”!

17. Softa

Like the previous word, you may hear it when your friend asks you “to relax”.

18. Pokenad

This word has nothing to do with the poke dish, but it’s perfect for my Pokémon friends, as it’s used to describe players who “go on a walk while chasing Pokémon”.

Swear words/expressions

19. Skit

Not the performance here, but a way of expressing your annoyance at something by saying “shit”.

20. Vad fan!

Fan (or devil) is a word you’ll hear a lot in Sweden, as you can combine it with other terms, making it a mild or more offensive swearword. Vad fan translates here as “what a devil!”.

And that’s it for the Swedish version of the slang series!

What about you? Have you heard any other words or expressions on your travels?
Or do you have any weird and funny slang words from your own country? If so, don’t hesitate to post them in the comments section!

Off to Spain soon? Here’s the Spanish version!

Love it? Feel free to share it!

25 Useful Québécois Words And Phrases