Meaning
Mentioned briefly while doing something else.
Cultural Background
Reflects the 'Lagom' and 'Jantelagen' culture. Mentioning achievements 'i förbigående' is seen as humble and socially acceptable. Usage is similar, but can be even more direct. However, the phrase remains a staple of formal Finland-Swedish. Americans might miss the importance of a Swedish 'i förbigående' comment because they often expect more direct emphasis on key points. The concept of 'Kuuki wo yomu' (reading the air) is similar to how Swedes use 'i förbigående' to drop hints that others are expected to pick up.
The 'Humblebrag' Tool
Use this to share successes without sounding arrogant. It's a key social skill in Sweden.
Don't use for breakups!
Mentioning a breakup or a death 'i förbigående' will make you seem sociopathic. Use with care.
Meaning
Mentioned briefly while doing something else.
The 'Humblebrag' Tool
Use this to share successes without sounding arrogant. It's a key social skill in Sweden.
Don't use for breakups!
Mentioning a breakup or a death 'i förbigående' will make you seem sociopathic. Use with care.
Listen closely
When a Swede says something 'i förbigående', it might actually be the most important thing they say all day. Pay attention to the 'side-notes'.
Test Yourself
Fyll i rätt fras i meningen.
Han ______ i förbigående att han skulle resa bort.
'Nämna' (mention) is the most natural verb to use with 'i förbigående'.
Vilket alternativ betyder samma sak som 'i förbigående'?
Hon sa det i förbigående.
The phrase implies brevity and a lack of formality/emphasis.
Matcha situationen med rätt användning.
Du vill berätta för din kollega att du har köpt en ny bil, men du vill inte verka skrytsam.
Mentioning it in passing is a classic way to avoid looking like you are bragging (Jantelagen).
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesHan ______ i förbigående att han skulle resa bort.
'Nämna' (mention) is the most natural verb to use with 'i förbigående'.
Hon sa det i förbigående.
The phrase implies brevity and a lack of formality/emphasis.
Du vill berätta för din kollega att du har köpt en ny bil, men du vill inte verka skrytsam.
Mentioning it in passing is a classic way to avoid looking like you are bragging (Jantelagen).
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questionsIt is neutral. You can use it with your boss or your best friend.
Yes, usually as 'I förbigående sagt...' which means 'In passing...'
'Förresten' is 'by the way' (a subject jump). 'I förbigående' describes *how* you mentioned something that was already somewhat relevant.
Usually, yes. 'Nämna' and 'säga' are the most common partners.
Related Phrases
i förbifarten
similarIn the passing-run / quickly.
förresten
similarBy the way.
i en bisats
specialized formIn a subordinate clause.
parentetiskt
synonymParenthetically.
mellan raderna
builds onBetween the lines.
