Overview
The Swedish word 'stort' is an adjective primarily meaning 'big' or 'large'. Its form 'stort' is specifically used when modifying a singular noun of neuter gender (an 'ett-word'). For example, 'ett stort hus' means 'a big house', because 'hus' (house) is a neuter noun. In contrast, 'stor' is used for singular common gender nouns (an 'en-word'), such as 'en stor bil' (a big car), and for indefinite plural nouns like 'stora bilar' (big cars).
The word 'stort' is part of a set of inflections for the adjective 'stor'. The full set includes 'stor' (common gender singular indefinite), 'stort' (neuter gender singular indefinite), and 'stora' (definite singular and plural). These inflections are crucial for correct grammatical agreement in Swedish. For instance, you would say 'det stora huset' (the big house) and 'den stora bilen' (the big car), where 'stora' is the definite form for both genders. When comparing things, 'större' means 'bigger' or 'larger', as in 'mitt hus är större än ditt' (my house is bigger than yours). The superlative form is 'störst', meaning 'biggest' or 'largest', as in 'det största huset i staden' (the biggest house in the city).
Beyond physical size, 'stort' can also convey importance or intensity, similar to the English 'great'. For example, 'ett stort problem' means 'a big problem' in terms of significance. The phrase 'ett stort tack' translates to 'a big thank you' or 'many thanks', emphasizing the gratitude. 'Göra stort intryck' means 'to make a great impression'. Understanding these nuances allows for a more natural and accurate use of the word in various contexts. It's a fundamental adjective in Swedish, frequently encountered in everyday conversation and literature, making its correct usage essential for learners. The word's Germanic roots highlight its long history and connection to similar terms in other Germanic languages, underscoring its foundational role in the vocabulary.
Collocations courantes
Souvent confondu avec
similar spelling, different meaning
Modèles grammaticaux
Comment l'utiliser
'Stort' is the neuter singular form of the adjective 'stor' (big/large). It is used to agree with neuter nouns in singular form, for example, 'ett stort hus' (a big house) or 'ett stort problem' (a big problem). For common gender nouns, 'stor' is used (e.g., 'en stor bil' - a big car). In plural, the form 'stora' is used for all genders (e.g., 'stora hus' - big houses, 'stora bilar' - big cars). It can also be used as an adverb in certain contexts, though 'mycket' (much/very) is more common for intensity. When expressing 'thank you very much,' the phrase 'stort tack' is frequently used, literally meaning 'big thank you,' which is a common and idiomatic usage.
Forgetting that 'stor' is the base form and 'stort' is used with 'ett' words or when it functions as an adverb. Also, confusing it with 'stora' for plural or definite forms.
Astuces
Formal vs. informal
'Stor' is a common adjective. For slightly more formal contexts, consider words like 'omfattande' (extensive) or 'ansenlig' (considerable).
Common pitfalls
Remember 'stor' declines based on gender and number. 'Stort' is the neuter singular form. For common gender singular, use 'stor', and for plural, use 'stora'.
Synonyms and nuances
While 'stor' generally means 'big' or 'large', you can use synonyms to add nuance: - 'Enorm' (enormous): for something exceptionally big. - 'Jättestor' (gigantic): an intensified form of 'stor'. - 'Umfattande' (comprehensive/extensive): often used for abstract concepts like studies or problems. - 'Rymlig' (spacious): for places or containers with a lot of room.
Origine du mot
From Old Norse 'stórr', ultimately from Proto-Germanic '*stōraz' (meaning 'large, great'). It shares roots with English 'stour' (archaic, meaning 'great, stout').
Contexte culturel
In Swedish culture, 'stor' (and its neuter form 'stort') is a very common and versatile adjective. It's used broadly to describe physical size, similar to 'big' or 'large' in English. However, it also extends to more abstract concepts. For instance, a 'stor stad' is a large city, but 'stor glädje' means great joy, and 'en stor man' refers to a great man, not just a physically big one. The concept of 'storhet' (greatness) is often admired. There isn't a strong cultural nuance that differs significantly from how 'big' is used in many Western cultures, but its frequent appearance in idioms and common phrases solidifies its place in everyday Swedish communication.
Astuce mémo
Think of 'stort' sounding a bit like 'stout' or 'store' (as in a big store).
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Formal vs. informal
'Stor' is a common adjective. For slightly more formal contexts, consider words like 'omfattande' (extensive) or 'ansenlig' (considerable).
Common pitfalls
Remember 'stor' declines based on gender and number. 'Stort' is the neuter singular form. For common gender singular, use 'stor', and for plural, use 'stora'.
Synonyms and nuances
While 'stor' generally means 'big' or 'large', you can use synonyms to add nuance: - 'Enorm' (enormous): for something exceptionally big. - 'Jättestor' (gigantic): an intensified form of 'stor'. - 'Umfattande' (comprehensive/extensive): often used for abstract concepts like studies or problems. - 'Rymlig' (spacious): for places or containers with a lot of room.
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