Meaning
Washing in a tub.
Cultural Background
The 'Lördagsbad' (Saturday bath) was a historical tradition where the whole family would bathe sequentially in the same water to save energy and effort. While Swedes 'ta ett bad', Finns are more likely to 'ta en bastu' (take a sauna). The bath is often secondary to the sauna experience. In modern apartments, bathtubs are often replaced with showers to save space. Having a tub to 'ta ett bad' in is now seen as a luxury. Swedish parents are often advised to 'ta ett bad' with their newborns for skin-to-skin contact and calming effects.
Add an adjective
Always try to add 'varmt' (warm) or 'skönt' (nice) to sound more like a native speaker.
The 'Ett' is key
Don't forget the 'ett'. 'Ta bad' sounds like you are a robot.
Meaning
Washing in a tub.
Add an adjective
Always try to add 'varmt' (warm) or 'skönt' (nice) to sound more like a native speaker.
The 'Ett' is key
Don't forget the 'ett'. 'Ta bad' sounds like you are a robot.
The 'Bada' distinction
Remember: 'Ta ett bad' = Tub. 'Bada' = Lake/Sea/Tub.
Test Yourself
Fill in the correct form of the verb 'ta'.
Igår ___ jag ett varmt bad.
The sentence refers to 'igår' (yesterday), so we need the past tense 'tog'.
Which sentence is correct?
Choose the natural Swedish way to say 'I want to take a bath'.
We use the verb 'ta' and the neuter article 'ett'.
Match the phrase to the situation.
You are at a lake and want to swim.
For outdoor swimming, 'bada' is the correct term.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Är barnen rena? B: Ja, de har precis ___.
We use the supine form 'tagit' after 'har' to form the present perfect.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Water Activities
In the Tub
- • Ta ett bad
- • Ta ett skumbad
In Nature
- • Bada i sjön
- • Ta ett dopp
Practice Bank
4 exercisesIgår ___ jag ett varmt bad.
The sentence refers to 'igår' (yesterday), so we need the past tense 'tog'.
Choose the natural Swedish way to say 'I want to take a bath'.
We use the verb 'ta' and the neuter article 'ett'.
You are at a lake and want to swim.
For outdoor swimming, 'bada' is the correct term.
A: Är barnen rena? B: Ja, de har precis ___.
We use the supine form 'tagit' after 'har' to form the present perfect.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsNo, that is a literal translation from English/German and sounds incorrect in Swedish. Always use 'ta'.
No, it is neutral. You can use it with your boss or your best friend.
'Bada' is a general verb for being in water. 'Ta ett bad' specifically refers to the act of using a bathtub.
You say 'ett skumbad'. So, 'ta ett skumbad'.
No, for a shower you must use the verb 'duscha'.
It is an 'ett' word: ett bad, badet.
Jag tog ett bad.
Showers are more common for daily hygiene, but baths are very popular for relaxation during winter.
Yes, 'ta en dusch' is also common, though 'duscha' is more frequent.
It means a public swimming pool or bathhouse.
Related Phrases
Duscha
similarTo shower
Bada
builds onTo bathe or swim
Ett badkar
specialized formA bathtub
Badrum
specialized formBathroom
Simma
contrastTo swim
