minska en 30 segundos

  • Minska: to reduce, decrease, make smaller.
  • Used for quantities, sizes, intensity, and more.
  • Can be active (transitive) or natural (intransitive).
  • Essential for discussing changes and reductions.

Understanding 'Minska' in Swedish

The Swedish verb 'minska' is a fundamental word that translates directly to 'to reduce,' 'to decrease,' or 'to make smaller' in English. It's a versatile verb used across a wide range of contexts, from everyday conversations about quantities and sizes to more formal discussions about economics, health, and environmental issues. When you want to express the idea of something becoming less in number, size, intensity, or amount, 'minska' is the word you'll likely reach for.

Consider the simple act of dieting. If someone is trying to lose weight, they are trying to 'minska' their body mass. In a business setting, a company might aim to 'minska' its expenses or 'minska' its carbon footprint. Even in personal relationships, one might try to 'minska' conflicts by communicating more effectively. The core idea is always about a reduction or a lessening of something.

The word is used when the focus is on the process of reduction itself, or the state of being reduced. It implies an active effort or a natural tendency for something to become less. For instance, if the temperature outside is dropping, you can say 'temperaturen minskar' (the temperature is decreasing). If a store is having a sale, they might announce that prices will 'minska' (prices will decrease).

It's important to note that 'minska' is often used reflexively with 'sig', as in 'minska sig'. This construction emphasizes that the reduction is happening to the subject itself, rather than being done by an external agent. For example, 'Företaget måste minska sig' could imply the company needs to downsize or cut back its operations internally. However, it can also be used transitively, where something is actively made smaller. 'Jag försöker minska min sockerintag' (I am trying to reduce my sugar intake) is a good example of this transitive use.

The CEFR B1 level indicates that learners at this stage should be comfortable using 'minska' in everyday situations and simple factual texts. You'll encounter it frequently in news articles, product descriptions, and general conversations. Mastering 'minska' will significantly enhance your ability to discuss changes and reductions in various aspects of life, making your Swedish more nuanced and expressive.

Core Meaning
To make something smaller in size, quantity, or intensity.
Common Usage
Used for reducing numbers, prices, risks, consumption, speed, or physical dimensions.
Transitive vs. Intransitive
Can be used transitively (to reduce something) or intransitively (to become smaller).

Vi måste minska vår energiförbrukning.

We must reduce our energy consumption.

Antalet arbetslösa har börjat minska.

The number of unemployed people has started to decrease.

Constructing Sentences with 'Minska'

Using 'minska' correctly involves understanding its grammatical behavior and common sentence structures. As a transitive verb, it takes a direct object, indicating what is being made smaller. As an intransitive verb, it describes a process of becoming smaller without an explicit agent. The reflexive form 'minska sig' adds another layer of usage, often implying an internal reduction or downsizing.

Here are some common patterns and examples to illustrate:

Transitive Use: Verb + Direct Object
This is when you actively make something smaller. The object is the thing being reduced.

Regeringen försöker minska arbetslösheten.

The government is trying to reduce unemployment.

Vi måste minska kostnaderna för produktion.

We must reduce the costs of production.
Intransitive Use: Verb Alone
This describes a process of reduction happening naturally or without a specified agent.

Priserna på bostäder har börjat minska.

Housing prices have started to decrease.

Riskerna med sjukdomen minskar med vaccination.

The risks associated with the disease decrease with vaccination.
Reflexive Use: Minska sig
Implies the subject is reducing itself or shrinking.

Företaget valde att minska sig genom att sälja av en division.

The company chose to downsize by selling off a division.

Efter operationen fick patienten minska sig i sin dagliga aktivitet.

After the surgery, the patient had to reduce their daily activity.
With Adverbs/Prepositional Phrases
Adding detail about the extent or manner of reduction.

Vi behöver minska utsläppen betydligt.

We need to significantly reduce emissions.

Försök att minska ditt intag av socker gradvis.

Try to gradually reduce your sugar intake.

Real-World Encounters with 'Minska'

You will encounter the verb 'minska' in a multitude of everyday situations and media in Sweden. Its prevalence stems from its broad applicability to any scenario involving reduction or decrease. Listening to Swedish media or engaging in conversations will quickly expose you to its various uses.

News and Current Affairs: News reports frequently use 'minska' when discussing economic trends, crime statistics, environmental data, or health indicators. For example, you might hear 'inflationen har börjat minska' (inflation has started to decrease) or 'antalet olyckor minskar på grund av nya lagar' (the number of accidents is decreasing due to new laws).

Advertisements and Marketing: Businesses often use 'minska' to highlight benefits like cost savings, health improvements, or increased efficiency. A sale might be advertised with 'priser som minskar!' (prices that decrease!), or a health product might claim to 'minska stress' (reduce stress).

Personal Conversations: In casual talk, people use 'minska' to discuss personal goals, daily habits, or observations. 'Jag försöker minska mitt kaffeintag' (I'm trying to reduce my caffeine intake), or 'Färre människor kommer till torget nu, det har minskat betydligt' (Fewer people are coming to the square now, it has decreased significantly).

Health and Fitness: Discussions about weight loss, exercise, or medical conditions often involve 'minska'. 'Att minska sin vikt är bra för hälsan' (Reducing one's weight is good for health), or 'symptomen minskar efter behandlingen' (the symptoms decrease after treatment).

Environmental Discussions: With the growing focus on sustainability, 'minska' is frequently used in relation to environmental impact. 'Vi måste minska vår plastanvändning' (We must reduce our plastic usage), or 'utsläppen minskar tack vare nya tekniker' (emissions are decreasing thanks to new technologies).

Technical and Scientific Contexts: In more specialized fields, 'minska' can refer to a decrease in measurements, power, or other quantifiable aspects. For instance, in engineering, one might aim to 'minska friktionen' (reduce friction).

To truly internalize 'minska', try to actively listen for it when consuming Swedish content. Note the context and the subject being reduced. This active listening will significantly boost your comprehension and ability to use the word naturally.

På nyheterna sa de att arbetslösheten kommer att minska nästa år.

On the news, they said that unemployment will decrease next year.

Jag försöker minska mitt sockerintag för hälsans skull.

I am trying to reduce my sugar intake for the sake of my health.

Avoiding Pitfalls with 'Minska'

While 'minska' is a straightforward verb, learners can sometimes make errors in its usage, particularly concerning its transitive/intransitive nature and its distinction from similar words. Being aware of these common mistakes can help you use the word more accurately and confidently.

Confusing Transitive and Intransitive Use
Mistake: Using 'minska' transitively without a direct object, or intransitively when an object is implied. For example, saying 'Jag minskar' when you mean 'Jag minskar min vikt' (I am reducing my weight).
Correction: Ensure that when you are actively reducing something, you include the direct object. If the reduction is happening on its own, the intransitive use is correct. 'Färre människor kom, så publiken minskade.' (Fewer people came, so the audience decreased.) vs. 'Vi måste minska antalet anställda.' (We must reduce the number of employees.)
Overuse of the Reflexive 'Minska sig'
Mistake: Using 'minska sig' when a simple transitive or intransitive use is more appropriate. For instance, saying 'Företaget minskar sig' when the company is actively trying to reduce costs might be less precise than 'Företaget försöker minska sina kostnader'.
Correction: 'Minska sig' is best reserved for situations where the subject is inherently reducing itself or undergoing a process of downsizing or limitation. For general reductions, stick to the transitive or intransitive forms.
Confusing 'Minska' with Similar Verbs
Mistake: Using 'minska' when a more specific verb like 'avta' (to subside, decrease gradually) or 'förkorta' (to shorten) would be more accurate.
Correction: Understand the subtle differences. 'Minska' is a general term for making smaller. 'Avta' often refers to things like storms or pain subsiding. 'Förkorta' specifically means to make something shorter in length or duration. For example, you wouldn't say 'Minska tiden på filmen' if you mean to shorten it; you would say 'Förkorta filmen'. However, you would say 'Minska tiden jag spenderar på sociala medier' (reduce the time I spend on social media).
Incorrect Verb Conjugation
Mistake: Using the wrong tense or form of 'minska'. For example, using the infinitive 'minska' when a past tense like 'minskade' is required.
Correction: Always conjugate the verb correctly according to the tense and subject. The past tense is 'minskade', the supine is 'minskat', and the present participle is 'minskande'.

Fel: Jag minskar min tid på TV. (If the reduction is happening on its own)

Incorrect: I am reducing my time on TV. (Implies an active effort)

Rätt: Jag försöker minska min tid på TV.

Correct: I am trying to reduce my time on TV.

Exploring Synonyms and Alternatives for 'Minska'

While 'minska' is a versatile verb for reduction, Swedish offers other words that convey similar meanings with subtle differences in nuance, register, or specific application. Understanding these alternatives will allow you to choose the most precise word for your intended meaning.

Avta (to subside, decrease gradually)
'Avta' is often used for phenomena that decrease in intensity or strength over time, like weather, pain, or noise. It implies a natural fading or subsiding.
Example: Stormen började avta under natten. (The storm began to subside during the night.) 'Minska' would be less fitting here.
Förkorta (to shorten, to abbreviate)
This verb specifically refers to making something shorter in length or duration.
Example: Vi behöver förkorta mötet. (We need to shorten the meeting.) 'Minska' could be used for time spent in the meeting, but 'förkorta' is more direct for the duration itself.
Reducera (to reduce, to cut down)
'Reducera' is a direct cognate of the English 'reduce' and is often used in more formal or technical contexts. It's very similar to 'minska' but can sometimes carry a stronger sense of deliberate cutting or limitation.
Example: Företaget måste reducera sina utgifter. (The company must reduce its expenses.) In many cases, 'minska' and 'reducera' are interchangeable.
Nedgå (to go down, decrease)
This verb is often used for numbers or levels that decrease, particularly in a factual or statistical sense.
Example: Aktiekursen gick ned igår. (The stock price went down yesterday.) 'Minska' could also be used here, but 'nedgå' is common for financial figures.
Skära ner (to cut down, to slash)
This is a more informal phrasal verb, often implying a significant or drastic reduction, especially in budgets or spending.
Example: Staten måste skära ner på sina utgifter. (The state must cut down on its expenses.) This is more forceful than 'minska'.
Förminska (to make smaller, to diminish)
This is a causative verb, emphasizing the act of making something smaller. It's very close in meaning to 'minska' when used transitively, but can sometimes imply a more physical act of shrinking.
Example: Bilden förminskades för att passa på skärmen. (The image was made smaller to fit the screen.)

'Minska' är mer allmänt, medan 'förkorta' specifikt handlar om längd eller tid.

'Minska' is more general, while 'förkorta' specifically concerns length or time.

'Avta' används ofta för saker som naturligt blir mindre intensiva, som regn eller smärta.

'Avta' is often used for things that naturally become less intense, like rain or pain.

How Formal Is It?

Dato curioso

The root 'minn-' meaning 'less' or 'small' is related to the English word 'minor' and the Latin 'minus'. This connection highlights the shared Indo-European linguistic heritage that influences vocabulary across many European languages.

Guía de pronunciación

UK /ˈmɪnːskɑ/
US /ˈmɪnːskɑ/
First syllable ('min-')
Rima con
rinka sink vinka länka skinka tänka dränka stänka
Errores comunes
  • Pronouncing the 'n' as short.
  • Not clearly articulating the 'sk' sound.
  • Incorrect vowel sounds, especially for the final 'a'.

Nivel de dificultad

Lectura 3/5

At B1 level, learners can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc. 'Minska' is common in such texts, especially regarding everyday topics like consumption, health, and finances.

Escritura 3/5
Expresión oral 3/5
Escucha 3/5

Qué aprender después

Requisitos previos

storlek mängd antal energi kostnad risk tid fart

Aprende después

öka växa förkorta reducera avta förminska skära ner

Avanzado

diminution kontraktion degradering erosion utarmning

Gramática que debes saber

Verb Conjugation in Swedish

The verb 'minska' follows the regular pattern: infinitive 'minska', present 'minskar', past 'minskade', supine 'minskat'. Example: 'Jag minskar', 'Hon minskade', 'Vi har minskat'.

Transitive vs. Intransitive Verbs

Minska can be transitive (with an object: 'minska kostnaderna') or intransitive (without an object: 'kostnaderna minskar'). Understanding this distinction is key to correct usage.

Reflexive Verbs

The reflexive form 'minska sig' means to reduce oneself or downsize. Example: 'Företaget måste minska sig'.

Adverbs of Degree

Adverbs like 'gradvis' (gradually), 'betydligt' (significantly), 'drastiskt' (drastically) can modify 'minska' to specify the manner of reduction. Example: 'Vi måste gradvis minska vårt sockerintag'.

Collocations and Common Phrases

Certain phrases are commonly used with 'minska', such as 'minska risken' or 'minska utsläppen'. Learning these fixed expressions aids fluency.

Ejemplos por nivel

1

Jag vill minska min vikt.

I want to reduce my weight.

2

Minska volymen, tack.

Reduce the volume, please.

3

Vi måste minska utgifterna.

We must reduce the expenses.

4

Kaffet måste minska.

The coffee must decrease.

5

Ska vi minska storleken?

Shall we reduce the size?

6

Priset kommer att minska.

The price will decrease.

7

Minska farten lite.

Decrease the speed a little.

8

Han försöker minska stressen.

He is trying to reduce the stress.

1

Företaget kommer att minska antalet anställda.

The company will reduce the number of employees.

2

Vi behöver minska vår energiförbrukning.

We need to reduce our energy consumption.

3

Antalet turister har börjat minska.

The number of tourists has started to decrease.

4

Försök att minska ditt sockerintag.

Try to reduce your sugar intake.

5

Riskerna med att röka minskar om man slutar.

The risks of smoking decrease if one quits.

6

Efter renoveringen kunde de minska ljudnivån.

After the renovation, they could reduce the noise level.

7

Minska mängden matsvinn i hushållet.

Reduce the amount of food waste in the household.

8

Regeringen vill minska koldioxidutsläppen.

The government wants to reduce carbon dioxide emissions.

1

Företaget har beslutat att minska produktionen på grund av minskad efterfrågan.

The company has decided to reduce production due to decreased demand.

The verb 'minska' is used transitively with 'produktionen' as the direct object.

2

Det är viktigt att minska sin exponering för solen under de varmaste timmarna.

It is important to reduce one's exposure to the sun during the hottest hours.

The reflexive pronoun 'sin' is used with 'exponering' to indicate personal exposure.

3

Antalet arbetslösa har minskat stadigt under det senaste kvartalet.

The number of unemployed people has decreased steadily over the last quarter.

Here, 'minska' is used intransitively, describing the decrease of 'antalet arbetslösa'.

4

För att förbättra luftkvaliteten måste vi minska utsläppen från trafiken.

To improve air quality, we must reduce emissions from traffic.

'Minska' is used transitively with 'utsläppen' as the object.

5

Hon försöker medvetet minska sitt beroende av sociala medier.

She is consciously trying to reduce her dependence on social media.

The adverb 'medvetet' (consciously) modifies the action of reducing dependence.

6

Efter operationen fick patienten gradvis minska sin fysiska ansträngning.

After the surgery, the patient had to gradually reduce their physical exertion.

The adverb 'gradvis' (gradually) describes how the reduction should happen.

7

Om vi fortsätter att minska mängden plast vi använder, kan vi hjälpa miljön.

If we continue to reduce the amount of plastic we use, we can help the environment.

The conditional clause 'Om vi fortsätter...' sets up the consequence of reducing plastic use.

8

Tillverkaren har lyckats minska energiförbrukningen i sina nya modeller.

The manufacturer has succeeded in reducing energy consumption in its new models.

'Lyckats' (succeeded) is used with the infinitive 'minska'.

1

Den ekonomiska krisen tvingade många företag att drastiskt minska sina kostnader.

The economic crisis forced many companies to drastically reduce their costs.

'Drastiskt' (drastically) emphasizes the significant nature of the cost reduction.

2

Forskning visar att regelbunden motion kan minska risken för hjärt-kärlsjukdomar.

Research shows that regular exercise can reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

'Minska risken' is a common collocation in health contexts.

3

Samhället står inför utmaningen att minska sin klimatpåverkan.

Society faces the challenge of reducing its climate impact.

'Klimatpåverkan' (climate impact) is the object being reduced.

4

För att uppnå en hållbar utveckling måste vi minska vår konsumtion av ändliga resurser.

To achieve sustainable development, we must reduce our consumption of finite resources.

'Konsumtion av ändliga resurser' (consumption of finite resources) is the phrase being reduced.

5

Den nya teknologin syftar till att minska energiförlusterna i elnätet.

The new technology aims to reduce energy losses in the power grid.

'Energiförlusterna' (energy losses) is the target of reduction.

6

Det är avgörande att minska den globala uppvärmningen genom samordnade insatser.

It is crucial to reduce global warming through coordinated efforts.

'Minska den globala uppvärmningen' is a key phrase in climate change discussions.

7

Trots ansträngningar har företaget inte lyckats minska sina utsläpp tillräckligt.

Despite efforts, the company has not managed to reduce its emissions sufficiently.

'Tillräckligt' (sufficiently) indicates the degree of reduction that was not achieved.

8

Många studier tyder på att en minskad exponering för skärmtid kan förbättra sömnkvaliteten.

Many studies suggest that reduced exposure to screen time can improve sleep quality.

Here, 'minskad' is used as an adjective modifying 'exponering'.

1

Den pågående demografiska förändringen förväntas minska den arbetsföra befolkningen i många västländer.

The ongoing demographic shift is expected to reduce the working-age population in many Western countries.

'Minska' is used transitively with 'arbetsföra befolkningen' (working-age population) as the object.

2

Att implementera cirkulära ekonomiska principer syftar till att minska behovet av jungfruliga råvaror.

Implementing circular economic principles aims to reduce the need for virgin raw materials.

'Behovet av jungfruliga råvaror' (the need for virgin raw materials) is what is being reduced.

3

Det är en utmaning att minska korruptionen utan att underminera institutionernas legitimitet.

It is a challenge to reduce corruption without undermining the legitimacy of institutions.

'Korruptionen' (corruption) is the object of reduction. 'Underminera' (undermine) is another verb used to describe negative impacts.

4

Genom att optimera logistiken kan företaget potentiellt minska sina transportkostnader avsevärt.

By optimizing logistics, the company can potentially reduce its transportation costs significantly.

'Avsevärt' (significantly) emphasizes the magnitude of the cost reduction.

5

Stigande levnadskostnader tvingar många hushåll att minska sin konsumtion av icke-nödvändiga varor.

Rising living costs are forcing many households to reduce their consumption of non-essential goods.

'Konsumtion av icke-nödvändiga varor' (consumption of non-essential goods) is the phrase being reduced.

6

Den globala pandemin visade hur snabbt samhällsnormer kan förändras och minska behovet av traditionell pendling.

The global pandemic showed how quickly societal norms can change and reduce the need for traditional commuting.

'Behovet av traditionell pendling' (the need for traditional commuting) is reduced due to changing norms.

7

För att motverka antibiotikaresistens är det kritiskt att minska överanvändningen av antibiotika inom både human- och djurmedicin.

To counteract antibiotic resistance, it is critical to reduce the overuse of antibiotics in both human and veterinary medicine.

'Överanvändningen av antibiotika' (the overuse of antibiotics) is the target of reduction.

8

Den teknologiska utvecklingen möjliggör att vi kan minska vår fysiska miljöbelastning.

Technological development enables us to reduce our physical environmental impact.

'Fysiska miljöbelastning' (physical environmental impact) is what is being reduced.

1

Den ackumulerade effekten av årtionden av miljöförstöring har lett till en drastisk minskning av biologisk mångfald.

The cumulative effect of decades of environmental degradation has led to a drastic reduction in biodiversity.

'Minskning' is used as a noun here, derived from 'minska'.

2

Det politiska landskapet präglas av en strävan att minska statens inblandning i marknadsekonomin.

The political landscape is characterized by an endeavor to reduce state intervention in the market economy.

'Statens inblandning i marknadsekonomin' (state intervention in the market economy) is being reduced.

3

Att hantera komplexa globala utmaningar kräver strategier som kan minska de underliggande orsakerna till instabilitet.

Addressing complex global challenges requires strategies that can reduce the underlying causes of instability.

'Underliggande orsakerna till instabilitet' (the underlying causes of instability) are being reduced.

4

Den digitala transformationen har inte bara effektiviserat processer utan också bidragit till att minska behovet av fysisk närvaro.

The digital transformation has not only streamlined processes but also contributed to reducing the need for physical presence.

'Behovet av fysisk närvaro' (the need for physical presence) is reduced by digital transformation.

5

För att bemöta den ökande skuldsättningen måste regeringar överväga åtgärder för att minska offentliga utgifter.

To counter increasing indebtedness, governments must consider measures to reduce public spending.

'Offentliga utgifter' (public spending) is the target of reduction.

6

Den historiska analysen belyser hur perioder av välstånd ofta föregås av en minskning av sociala spänningar.

The historical analysis highlights how periods of prosperity are often preceded by a decrease in social tensions.

'Minskning' is used as a noun, referring to a decrease in social tensions.

7

Förmågan att kritiskt analysera information är avgörande för att minska spridningen av desinformation.

The ability to critically analyze information is crucial for reducing the spread of disinformation.

'Spridningen av desinformation' (the spread of disinformation) is reduced through critical analysis.

8

Den gradvisa utfasningen av fossila bränslen är nödvändig för att minska vår beroende av icke-förnybara energikällor.

The gradual phasing out of fossil fuels is necessary to reduce our dependence on non-renewable energy sources.

'Beroende av icke-förnybara energikällor' (dependence on non-renewable energy sources) is reduced.

Colocaciones comunes

minska risken
minska utsläppen
minska kostnaderna
minska mängden
minska antalet
minska förbrukningen
minska trycket
minska hastigheten
minska befolkningen
minska effekten

Frases Comunes

Minska farten!

— Slow down!

I trafiken är det viktigt att minska farten vid övergångsställen. (In traffic, it's important to slow down at crosswalks.)

Minska volymen.

— Lower the volume.

Kan du vara snäll och minska volymen på musiken? (Could you please lower the volume of the music?)

Minska stressen.

— Reduce stress.

Att meditera regelbundet kan hjälpa till att minska stressen i vardagen. (Meditating regularly can help reduce stress in everyday life.)

Minska utgifterna.

— Reduce expenses.

Familjen försöker aktivt minska sina månatliga utgifter för att spara pengar. (The family is actively trying to reduce their monthly expenses to save money.)

Minska risken för...

— Reduce the risk of...

Att bära hjälm minskar risken för allvarliga huvudskador vid cykling. (Wearing a helmet reduces the risk of serious head injuries when cycling.)

Minska mängden

— Reduce the amount of

Vi måste minska mängden plast vi använder i hushållet. (We must reduce the amount of plastic we use in the household.)

Minska antalet

— Reduce the number of

Genom att samarbeta kan vi minska antalet missförstånd. (By cooperating, we can reduce the number of misunderstandings.)

Minska förbrukningen

— Reduce consumption

Genom att köra mer energieffektivt kan vi minska vår bränsleförbrukning. (By driving more energy-efficiently, we can reduce our fuel consumption.)

Minska effekten av

— Lessen the effect of

Att sörja och prata om sina känslor kan hjälpa till att minska effekten av en traumatisk händelse. (Grieving and talking about one's feelings can help lessen the effect of a traumatic event.)

Minska sitt inflytande

— Lessen one's influence

Efter skandalen försökte politikern minska sitt inflytande i partiet. (After the scandal, the politician tried to lessen their influence in the party.)

Se confunde a menudo con

minska vs öka

'Öka' means to increase, which is the direct opposite of 'minska'. Learners might accidentally use one for the other when talking about changes.

minska vs växa

'Växa' means to grow. While related to increase, it often implies organic growth or development, whereas 'minska' is about becoming less.

minska vs förkorta

'Förkorta' specifically means to shorten in length or duration, whereas 'minska' is a more general term for reduction.

Modismos y expresiones

"minska tempot"

— To slow down one's pace of life or work.

Efter många år av hårt arbete bestämde hon sig för att minska tempot och njuta mer av livet. (After many years of hard work, she decided to slow down her pace and enjoy life more.)

Neutral
"minska trycket på"

— To lessen the pressure on someone or something.

Genom att dela upp arbetsuppgifterna kunde vi minska trycket på den ansvariga chefen. (By dividing the tasks, we could lessen the pressure on the responsible manager.)

Neutral
"minska ner på"

— To cut back on, to reduce one's intake of something (often food or drink).

Läkaren rådde honom att minska ner på alkohol och rökning. (The doctor advised him to cut back on alcohol and smoking.)

Informal
"minska sitt bidrag"

— To lessen one's contribution or involvement.

Efter att ha varit aktiv i föreningen i många år valde han att minska sitt bidrag för att ge plats åt yngre krafter. (After being active in the association for many years, he chose to lessen his contribution to make room for younger forces.)

Neutral
"minska sin exponering"

— To reduce one's exposure to a risk or element.

Investerare försöker ofta minska sin exponering mot högriskmarknader. (Investors often try to reduce their exposure to high-risk markets.)

Formal/Financial

Fácil de confundir

minska vs reducera

Both 'minska' and 'reducera' mean to reduce.

'Minska' is a more general and frequently used verb in everyday Swedish. 'Reducera' is often used in more formal, technical, or scientific contexts and can imply a more deliberate or forceful reduction. In many everyday situations, they are interchangeable, but 'minska' is the default choice for general reduction.

Vi måste minska våra kostnader. (General) vs. Forskare försöker reducera effekten av föroreningar. (More formal/scientific)

minska vs avta

Both describe a decrease.

'Minska' is about actively making something smaller or a general decrease. 'Avta' specifically refers to things that subside or decrease gradually, often naturally, like storms, pain, or noise. You wouldn't typically 'minska' a storm; you would say it 'avtar'.

Stormen avtog. (The storm subsided.) vs. Vi måste minska vår energiförbrukning. (We must reduce our energy consumption.)

minska vs förminska

Both relate to making something smaller.

'Förminska' is primarily used for making something physically smaller in size or dimension, often through an action. 'Minska' is more general and can apply to quantities, intensity, or abstract concepts as well as size. For example, you 'förminska' an image, but you 'minska' your stress.

Förminska bilden. (Make the image smaller.) vs. Minska stressen. (Reduce stress.)

minska vs skära ner

Both imply reduction.

'Skära ner' is an informal phrasal verb that often implies a drastic or significant cut, especially concerning budgets, spending, or staff. 'Minska' is more neutral and can refer to any degree of reduction. 'Skära ner' is less formal than 'minska'.

Företaget fick skära ner på personalen. (Informal, drastic cut) vs. Vi måste minska våra utgifter. (General reduction)

minska vs förkorta

Both deal with making something less.

'Förkorta' specifically means to shorten in length or duration. 'Minska' is a broader term for reduction. You would 'förkorta' a meeting's time, but you would 'minska' the time you spend in meetings.

Vi måste förkorta mötet. (Shorten the meeting.) vs. Jag vill minska tiden jag spenderar på möten. (Reduce the time I spend in meetings.)

Patrones de oraciones

A1

Subject + minska + object.

Jag minska min vikt.

A1

Minska + object!

Minska volymen!

A2

Subject + minska.

Priset minska.

A2

Försök att + minska + object.

Försök att minska socker.

B1

Subject + har/hade + minskat + object.

Vi har minskat kostnaderna.

B1

Subject + kommer att + minska.

Antalet kommer att minska.

B2

Subject + minska + object + med + adverb.

De minskade utsläppen betydligt.

C1

Att + minska + object + är + adjective.

Att minska vår påverkan är viktigt.

Familia de palabras

Sustantivos

minskning

Verbos

minska

Adjetivos

minskande

Relacionado

reducera
avta
förkorta
förminska
skära ner

Cómo usarlo

frequency

High

Errores comunes
  • Using 'minska' when 'avta' is more appropriate. Stormen avtog. (The storm subsided.)

    'Avta' is used for natural phenomena that subside or fade gradually, like storms, pain, or noise. 'Minska' is more general and can imply an active reduction.

  • Confusing transitive and intransitive use. Vi måste minska vår energiförbrukning. (Transitive) / Vår energiförbrukning minskar. (Intransitive)

    If you are actively reducing something, use a direct object (transitive). If something is becoming less on its own, use the intransitive form.

  • Using 'minska' instead of 'förkorta' for duration. Vi måste förkorta mötet. (We must shorten the meeting.)

    'Förkorta' specifically means to shorten in length or duration. 'Minska' is more general for reduction. You shorten a meeting, but you reduce the time spent in meetings.

  • Overusing the reflexive 'minska sig'. Företaget vill minska sina kostnader. (The company wants to reduce its costs.)

    'Minska sig' implies the subject is reducing itself or downsizing. For general reductions, especially of external factors like costs, the transitive use is more common and appropriate.

  • Confusing 'minska' with 'växa' (grow). Barnen växer snabbt. (The children grow quickly.)

    'Växa' means to grow, which is the opposite of becoming smaller. Learners might confuse the concepts of reduction and growth.

Consejos

Transitive vs. Intransitive

Remember that 'minska' can be transitive (with an object, e.g., 'minska utgifterna') or intransitive (without an object, e.g., 'utgifterna minskar'). Pay attention to whether you are actively making something smaller or if it is becoming smaller on its own.

Create Your Own Sentences

Try to write sentences about things you want to 'minska' in your own life, like stress, screen time, or waste. This personal connection will help you remember the word and its usage.

Focus on the 'n' and 'sk'

Pay attention to the long 'n' sound and the clear 'sk' combination in 'minska'. Practice saying it aloud to get the pronunciation right.

Learn Related Words

Explore synonyms like 'reducera', 'avta', and 'förminska' to understand the nuances and expand your vocabulary. Also, learn the antonyms like 'öka' and 'växa'.

Swedish Values

The concept of 'minska' often aligns with Swedish values of moderation and sustainability. Understanding this cultural context can help you grasp why the word is so frequently used.

Verb Forms

Be familiar with the different verb forms: 'minska' (infinitive/present), 'minskade' (past), 'minskat' (supine), and 'minskande' (present participle/adjective).

Listen Actively

When listening to Swedish, try to identify instances of 'minska'. Note what is being reduced and in what context. This active listening will improve your comprehension.

Common Phrases

Memorize common phrases like 'minska farten' and 'minska kostnaderna'. These fixed expressions are frequently used and will make your Swedish sound more natural.

Reflexive Use

Understand the reflexive form 'minska sig', which means to reduce oneself or downsize. It's used when the subject is performing the reduction on itself.

Memorízalo

Mnemotecnia

Imagine a MINUS sign (-) on a SCALE. The scale is MINsking, going down. So, MINska means to make smaller or decrease.

Asociación visual

Picture a shrinking balloon. As the air is let out, the balloon gets smaller. This visual of something decreasing in size can help remember 'minska'.

Word Web

Reduction Decrease Smaller Less Shrink Lower Cut down Diminish

Desafío

Try to identify five things in your daily life that you can 'minska' (reduce) and write a sentence for each.

Origen de la palabra

The word 'minska' originates from the Old Norse word 'minnka', which itself is derived from 'minnr' meaning 'less'. This linguistic root clearly points to the core concept of reduction or diminution.

Significado original: To make less, to diminish.

Germanic, specifically North Germanic (Old Norse).

Contexto cultural

When discussing reductions in workforce ('minska antalet anställda'), it's important to be sensitive to the human impact. In health contexts, discussing 'minska' weight should be done with care and respect for individual journeys.

The concept of 'making smaller' or 'reducing' is universal, but the Swedish emphasis on 'lagom' can influence how 'minska' is perceived – it's often about achieving a balanced state rather than extreme reduction.

Swedish environmental campaigns often use 'minska' to encourage reduced consumption of single-use plastics. Economic policies frequently discuss 'minska' national debt or 'minska' unemployment. Health advice often includes 'minska' sugar intake or 'minska' stress levels.

Practica en la vida real

Contextos reales

Shopping and consumer behavior

  • Minska utgifterna
  • Minska mängden förpackningar
  • Minska priset

Health and well-being

  • Minska stressen
  • Minska risken för sjukdom
  • Minska vikten

Environment and sustainability

  • Minska utsläppen
  • Minska energiförbrukningen
  • Minska plastanvändningen

Economy and business

  • Minska kostnaderna
  • Minska antalet anställda
  • Minska produktionen

Traffic and safety

  • Minska farten
  • Minska risken för olyckor
  • Minska ljudnivån

Inicios de conversación

"What are some things you are trying to 'minska' in your life right now?"

"How do you think we can 'minska' the amount of waste we produce?"

"In what situations do you find yourself needing to 'minska' your speed or volume?"

"What are some common ways Swedish companies try to 'minska' their expenses?"

"Can you think of a time when 'minska' something actually led to a positive outcome?"

Temas para diario

Describe a situation where you successfully managed to 'minska' a negative aspect of your life. What steps did you take?

Reflect on the environmental impact of your daily activities. What specific actions could you take to 'minska' your footprint?

Write about a personal goal you have related to 'minska' something (e.g., screen time, debt, stress). How will you achieve it?

Imagine you are advising a city on how to 'minska' traffic congestion. What strategies would you suggest?

Consider the concept of 'lagom'. How does the idea of 'minska' when something is too much relate to this Swedish cultural value?

Preguntas frecuentes

10 preguntas

The most common translations for 'minska' are 'to reduce' and 'to decrease'. It can also mean 'to make smaller' or 'to lessen'. The exact translation often depends on the context.

Use 'minska' transitively (with a direct object) when you are actively making something smaller or less. For example, 'Vi måste minska våra kostnader.' (We must reduce our costs.) Use it intransitively when the reduction is happening on its own or without a specific agent. For example, 'Priserna har börjat minska.' (Prices have started to decrease.)

'Minska' is the more common and general verb for reduction in everyday Swedish. 'Reducera' is often used in more formal, technical, or scientific contexts and can imply a more deliberate or forceful reduction. For example, 'minska utsläppen' (reduce emissions) is common, but 'reducera effekten av X' might be used in a scientific paper.

Yes, 'minska' can be used for abstract concepts. For instance, you can 'minska stressen' (reduce stress), 'minska risken' (reduce the risk), or 'minska behovet' (reduce the need).

When referring to making something physically smaller, 'minska' can be used transitively, e.g., 'minska storleken på kläderna' (reduce the size of the clothes). The verb 'förminska' is also specifically used for making something physically smaller.

The past tense of 'minska' is 'minskade'. For example, 'Igår minskade antalet turister.' (Yesterday, the number of tourists decreased.)

Yes, the noun form is 'minskning', which means 'a reduction' or 'a decrease'. For example, 'En märkbar minskning av försäljningen.' (A noticeable decrease in sales.)

'Minska sig' is a reflexive form that means to reduce oneself or to downsize. It implies that the subject is undergoing the reduction itself. For example, 'Företaget måste minska sig.' (The company must downsize.)

Yes, common phrases include 'minska farten' (slow down), 'minska volymen' (lower the volume), 'minska risken för...' (reduce the risk of...), and 'minska kostnaderna' (reduce costs).

'Minska' can relate to 'lagom' (not too much, not too little) when it implies a sensible reduction to achieve balance. For example, reducing consumption to a 'lagom' level aligns with both concepts.

Ponte a prueba 10 preguntas

/ 10 correct

Perfect score!

¿Te ha servido?
¡No hay comentarios todavía. Sé el primero en compartir tus ideas!