stortset em 30 segundos
- Stortset means basically or mostly.
- It indicates a general truth with few exceptions.
- Common in everyday Danish speech and writing.
- Use it to generalize or summarize.
The Danish adverb stortset is a very common and useful word that translates most directly to 'basically,' 'mostly,' 'for the most part,' or 'almost entirely' in English. It's used to indicate that something is generally true or applies to the majority of a situation, with only minor exceptions or details that don't significantly alter the overall picture. Think of it as a way to generalize or summarize without being absolutely precise. It helps to smooth over minor discrepancies and present a general truth.
- Core Meaning
- General applicability with minor exceptions.
- Usage Frequency
- Very common in everyday spoken and written Danish.
You'll hear stortset in a wide variety of contexts, from casual conversations about daily life to more formal discussions about trends or statistics. It's a word that native speakers use frequently to convey a sense of general truth without getting bogged down in specifics. For instance, if you ask someone about their weekend and they say it was stortset good, it implies there might have been a small hiccup, but overall, the experience was positive. Similarly, if a report states that a particular product is stortset sold out, it means there might be a few items left, but the vast majority are gone.
Hele familien var stortset enige om beslutningen.
This means 'The whole family was basically in agreement about the decision.' The 'stortset' here suggests that perhaps one person had a minor reservation, but the overwhelming majority agreed. It's a way to express a collective sentiment efficiently.
- Synonymous Concepts
- In essence, for the most part, generally speaking, almost.
It's an adverb that modifies verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, giving a sense of approximation or generality. It's the opposite of saying something is *exactly* or *entirely* true without any exceptions. Mastering stortset will significantly improve your comprehension of everyday Danish speech and text, allowing you to grasp the intended meaning even when precise details are omitted.
Butikken er stortset tom for mælk.
This translates to 'The shop is mostly out of milk.' It implies there might be one or two cartons left, but for all practical purposes, it's sold out. This is a very natural way to express this in Danish.
- Key Function
- To generalize or summarize, indicating a situation is true for the majority, with only minor exceptions.
Using stortset correctly involves placing it appropriately within a sentence to modify the element it refers to, typically indicating generality. It often appears before the adjective, adverb, or verb it's qualifying, or at the beginning of a clause to introduce a general statement. Its flexibility allows it to fit into various sentence structures, making it a versatile tool for expressing approximations.
- Placement: Modifying Adjectives/Adverbs
- When stortset modifies an adjective or adverb, it usually comes directly before it.
Han er stortset altid forsinket.
Translation: 'He is basically always late.' Here, stortset modifies 'altid' (always), suggesting he is late very frequently, but perhaps not every single time without exception.
- Placement: Modifying Verbs (General Actions)
- It can also precede the main verb to indicate that the action is generally performed or completed.
Vi har stortset afsluttet projektet.
Translation: 'We have mostly finished the project.' This implies the main work is done, and only minor finishing touches remain.
- Placement: Introducing a General Statement
- Sometimes, stortset can start a phrase or even a sentence to set a general tone.
Stortset, var vejret godt under ferien.
Translation: 'Basically, the weather was good during the vacation.' This frames the entire statement as a general observation.
- Usage with Nouns (Indirectly)
- While stortset is an adverb, it's often used in phrases that describe a state or quantity of nouns.
Alle bøgerne var stortset læst.
Translation: 'All the books were mostly read.' This implies that the majority of the books were read, but perhaps a few were not, or some were only partially read.
- Important Note
- Stortset is not used to directly modify a noun. For example, you wouldn't say 'stortset mand' (mostly man). It modifies actions, qualities, or states.
Stortset is ubiquitous in Danish, appearing in virtually every facet of spoken and written communication. Its naturalness means it's not confined to specific registers; you'll hear it from children, teenagers, adults, and the elderly in a multitude of everyday situations. Understanding these contexts will help you internalize its usage and feel more confident incorporating it into your own Danish.
- Everyday Conversations
- This is where stortset shines. People use it constantly to describe their day, their experiences, or the state of things around them.
'Hvordan var din weekend?' 'Den var stortset afslappende.'
Translation: 'How was your weekend?' 'It was mostly relaxing.' This suggests it was generally relaxing, but perhaps there was a minor interruption or chore.
- Discussions about Work/Projects
- When talking about progress or completion, stortset is frequently used.
Vi har stortset nået alle deadlines.
Translation: 'We have basically met all deadlines.' This indicates that most, if not all, deadlines were met, with perhaps one or two being slightly missed or met at the very last moment.
- Describing Trends and General Observations
- In news reports, articles, or casual observations about society or markets, stortset is common.
Befolkningen er stortset enig i forslaget.
Translation: 'The population is mostly in agreement with the proposal.' This suggests broad consensus, even if there's a minority dissenting opinion.
- Informal Settings
- Among friends, family, or colleagues in a relaxed atmosphere, it's used to simplify descriptions.
'Er huset rent nu?' 'Ja, det er stortset færdigt.'
Translation: 'Is the house clean now?' 'Yes, it's basically done.' This implies the main cleaning is complete, but perhaps a few small areas still need attention.
- Formal Settings (with caution)
- While very common, in extremely formal academic or legal writing, more precise terms might be preferred. However, in general formal discourse (like business meetings or lectures), it's perfectly acceptable.
While stortset is a forgiving word, learners can sometimes misuse it, often by treating it as a direct equivalent to English words that have slightly different nuances or by misplacing it in the sentence. Understanding these common pitfalls can help you avoid them and use the word more accurately.
- Mistake 1: Overgeneralization / Using it when something is *truly* exact
- Using stortset when a situation is absolutely precise and has no exceptions. This can make your statement sound less confident or even slightly inaccurate.
Incorrect: 'Der er stortset præcis fem liter vand i flasken.' (There are basically exactly five liters of water in the bottle.)
Correct: 'Der er præcis fem liter vand i flasken.' (There are exactly five liters of water in the bottle.)
Correct alternative if there's a tiny, negligible difference: 'Der er næsten præcis fem liter vand i flasken.' (There are almost exactly five liters of water in the bottle.)
- Mistake 2: Confusing 'stortset' with 'næsten' (almost)
- While both imply something is not fully complete or true, 'stortset' refers to the majority or general state, whereas 'næsten' focuses on being close to a specific point or completion.
Incorrect: 'Han er stortset her.' (He is mostly here.) - This doesn't make much sense. You can't be 'mostly' somewhere.
Correct: 'Han er næsten her.' (He is almost here.)
Correct usage of 'stortset': 'Han er stortset altid forsinket.' (He is basically always late.) - Here, 'stortset' modifies 'altid' (always), indicating a general pattern.
- Mistake 3: Incorrect Placement
- Placing stortset in a position that changes the meaning or makes the sentence grammatically awkward.
Potentially awkward: 'Børnene spiser stortset deres aftensmad.' (The children eat basically their dinner.) - While understandable, it's more natural to say 'Børnene spiser stortset alt deres aftensmad.' (The children eat basically all their dinner.) or 'Børnene har stortset spist deres aftensmad.' (The children have basically eaten their dinner.)
Natural placement: 'Børnene har stortset spist op.' (The children have basically finished eating.)
- Mistake 4: Direct Translation of English Idioms
- Trying to force English phrases like 'mostly good' directly into Danish without considering natural Danish phrasing.
Less natural: 'Det var stortset godt.' (It was mostly good.) While this can be understood, it's more common to say 'Det var for det meste godt.' or simply 'Det var generelt godt.' or imply the slight imperfection in context.
More natural phrasing: 'Det var for det meste godt.' (It was for the most part good.) or 'Det gik stortset godt.' (It went basically well.)
Danish offers several words and phrases that overlap in meaning with stortset, each with subtle differences in nuance, formality, or usage. Understanding these alternatives allows for more precise expression and a richer vocabulary.
- For det meste
- This phrase translates directly to 'for the most part' or 'mostly.' It's very similar to stortset and often interchangeable in everyday conversation. It emphasizes the majority aspect.
- Usage Comparison
- Stortset: 'Han er stortset altid her.' (He is basically always here.)
For det meste: 'Han er for det meste her.' (He is for the most part here.) - This sounds a bit more like he's physically present most of the time, rather than a habit. Stortset is often more idiomatic for habits or general states.
- Generelt
- Meaning 'generally' or 'in general.' This is a broader term that implies a typical situation or a common characteristic, often used when making sweeping statements.
- Usage Comparison
- Stortset: 'Projektet er stortset færdigt.' (The project is basically finished.) - Focuses on completion state.
Generelt: 'Projektet er generelt vellykket.' (The project is generally successful.) - Focuses on overall evaluation.
- Næsten
- Meaning 'almost.' This word indicates proximity to a certain state or completion, but not necessarily the majority. It's about being close to the target.
- Usage Comparison
- Stortset: 'Butikken er stortset tom for mælk.' (The shop is mostly out of milk.) - Implies very little milk is left.
Næsten: 'Butikken er næsten tom for mælk.' (The shop is almost out of milk.) - Implies there's very little milk, but perhaps slightly more than 'stortset tom'. It's about nearing emptiness.
- Hovedsageligt
- Meaning 'mainly' or 'principally.' This term is often used to identify the primary component or reason among several.
- Usage Comparison
- Stortset: 'Vi har stortset alle været enige.' (We have basically all been in agreement.) - General consensus.
Hovedsageligt: 'Vi er hovedsageligt enige om punkt et.' (We are mainly in agreement about point one.) - Focuses on a specific point or aspect.
- Omkring
- Meaning 'around' or 'approximately.' This is used primarily for quantities or times, indicating an estimate.
- Usage Comparison
- Stortset: 'Det tog stortset en time.' (It took basically an hour.) - Implies it was around an hour, maybe a bit more or less, but the duration was generally an hour.
Omkring: 'Det tog omkring en time.' (It took around an hour.) - This is a more direct estimation of time.
How Formal Is It?
Curiosidade
The '-set' suffix in Danish can also be found in words like 'forudsat' (provided that) and 'vist' (certainly, indeed), often indicating a state or a completed action. In 'stortset', it signifies a state of being 'large' or 'general'.
Guia de pronúncia
- Pronouncing the 'r' too much like an English 'r'.
- Making the vowels too long.
- Incorrect stress placement.
Nível de dificuldade
While the word itself is simple, understanding the nuances of 'stortset' in complex sentences or when contrasted with synonyms like 'næsten' or 'for det meste' can require careful reading and contextual analysis, especially in B2-C1 level texts.
Learners might struggle with placing 'stortset' correctly in sentences and differentiating its usage from similar adverbs. Overuse or misuse can make writing sound unnatural.
Producing 'stortset' naturally in conversation requires practice. It's easy to forget or substitute it with simpler English equivalents, but using it correctly significantly enhances fluency.
As a very common word, 'stortset' is usually easy to pick up in listening comprehension, especially when spoken clearly. Its meaning is often inferable from context.
O que aprender depois
Pré-requisitos
Aprenda a seguir
Avançado
Gramática essencial
Placement of Adverbs
Adverbs like 'stortset' often precede the adjective, adverb, or verb they modify. For example, 'Han er stortset altid forsinket' (He is basically always late).
Use of 'stortset' with Quantifiers
'Stortset' can be used with quantifiers like 'alle' (all) or 'ingen' (none) to mean 'basically all' or 'basically none'. Example: 'Stortset alle var enige'.
Distinguishing from 'næsten'
'Næsten' (almost) refers to proximity to a specific point, while 'stortset' refers to the majority or general state. 'Jeg er næsten færdig' (I am almost finished), vs. 'Opgaven er stortset færdig' (The task is basically finished).
Adverbial Phrases
'Stortset' can modify adverbial phrases. Example: 'Han opførte sig stortset som om intet var hændt' (He acted basically as if nothing had happened).
Sentence Adverbs
It can sometimes function as a sentence adverb, setting the tone for the whole clause. Example: 'Stortset, var mødet produktivt.' (Basically, the meeting was productive).
Exemplos por nível
Huset er stort.
The house is big.
Simple adjective.
Jeg har en stor bil.
I have a big car.
Adjective modifying a noun.
Det er et stort problem.
It is a big problem.
Adjective with a noun.
Vi skal lave noget stort.
We need to do something big.
Adjective used nominally.
Han har en stor familie.
He has a big family.
Adjective describing family size.
Det var en stor succes.
It was a big success.
Adjective describing success.
Hun har et stort hus.
She has a big house.
Possession of a large item.
Der er et stort træ i haven.
There is a big tree in the garden.
Describing a natural object.
De har stort set altid kaffe på kanden.
They basically always have coffee in the pot.
Stort set modifying 'altid' (always).
Det er stort set det samme.
It is basically the same.
Stort set modifying 'det samme' (the same).
Vi har stort set ryddet op.
We have basically tidied up.
Stort set modifying the verb phrase 'ryddet op' (tidied up).
Børnene er stort set klar.
The children are basically ready.
Stort set modifying 'klar' (ready).
Det var stort set en god dag.
It was basically a good day.
Stort set modifying 'en god dag' (a good day).
Filmen var stort set spændende.
The movie was basically exciting.
Stort set modifying 'spændende' (exciting).
De er stort set enige.
They are basically in agreement.
Stort set modifying 'enige' (in agreement).
Butikken er stort set lukket nu.
The shop is basically closed now.
Stort set modifying 'lukket' (closed).
Resultaterne var stort set som forventet.
The results were basically as expected.
Stort set modifying the prepositional phrase 'som forventet' (as expected).
Han forstod stort set alt, hvad der blev sagt.
He basically understood everything that was said.
Stort set modifying 'alt' (everything).
Vi har stort set færdiggjort rapporten.
We have basically completed the report.
Stort set modifying the past participle 'færdiggjort' (completed).
Vejret var stort set godt under hele ferien.
The weather was basically good during the whole vacation.
Stort set modifying 'godt' (good) in relation to time.
De fleste af gæsterne var stort set tilfredse.
Most of the guests were basically satisfied.
Stort set modifying 'tilfredse' (satisfied).
Maskinen fungerer stort set uden problemer.
The machine basically functions without problems.
Stort set modifying the adverbial phrase 'uden problemer' (without problems).
Planen var stort set klar til implementering.
The plan was basically ready for implementation.
Stort set modifying 'klar' (ready).
Han har stort set altid ret.
He is basically always right.
Stort set modifying 'altid ret' (always right).
Den nye lovgivning påvirker stort set alle borgere.
The new legislation affects basically all citizens.
Stort set modifying 'alle borgere' (all citizens), implying a very broad impact.
Vi har stort set elimineret risikoen for fejl.
We have basically eliminated the risk of errors.
Stort set modifying the past participle 'elimineret' (eliminated).
Kulturen i virksomheden er stort set uændret.
The company culture is basically unchanged.
Stort set modifying 'uændret' (unchanged).
Debatten handlede stort set om økonomi.
The debate was basically about the economy.
Stort set modifying the prepositional phrase 'om økonomi' (about the economy).
Hans argumentation var stort set overbevisende.
His argumentation was basically convincing.
Stort set modifying 'overbevisende' (convincing).
De nye retningslinjer er stort set blevet accepteret.
The new guidelines have basically been accepted.
Stort set modifying the passive verb phrase 'blevet accepteret' (been accepted).
Samarbejdet har stort set fungeret gnidningsfrit.
The collaboration has basically functioned smoothly.
Stort set modifying the adverbial phrase 'gnidningsfrit' (smoothly).
Byens befolkning er stort set enig i udviklingsplanerne.
The city's population is basically in agreement with the development plans.
Stort set modifying 'enig' (in agreement).
Den politiske situation er stort set stabiliseret efter krisen.
The political situation is basically stabilized after the crisis.
Stort set modifying the past participle 'stabiliseret' (stabilized).
Hans analyse af problemet var stort set dækkende.
His analysis of the problem was basically comprehensive.
Stort set modifying 'dækkende' (comprehensive).
Den kulturelle indflydelse fra udlandet er stort set uundgåelig i en globaliseret verden.
The cultural influence from abroad is basically unavoidable in a globalized world.
Stort set modifying 'uundgåelig' (unavoidable).
Forslaget omfatter stort set alle aspekter af problemet.
The proposal covers basically all aspects of the problem.
Stort set modifying 'alle aspekter' (all aspects).
Innovationen har stort set revolutioneret branchen.
The innovation has basically revolutionized the industry.
Stort set modifying the past participle 'revolutioneret' (revolutionized).
Hans evne til at tilpasse sig nye situationer er stort set uovertruffen.
His ability to adapt to new situations is basically unparalleled.
Stort set modifying 'uovertruffen' (unparalleled).
Den økonomiske vækst har stort set været stabil over det seneste årti.
The economic growth has basically been stable over the past decade.
Stort set modifying 'stabil' (stable).
Debatten om klimaforandringer er stort set domineret af videnskabelige beviser.
The debate about climate change is basically dominated by scientific evidence.
Stort set modifying the passive verb phrase 'domineret af' (dominated by).
Den eksistentielle angst er stort set en iboende del af den menneskelige tilstand.
Existential angst is basically an inherent part of the human condition.
Stort set modifying 'en iboende del' (an inherent part).
Hans filosofiske system er stort set bygget på rationalisme.
His philosophical system is basically built on rationalism.
Stort set modifying the passive verb phrase 'bygget på' (built on).
Den narrative struktur i romanen er stort set lineær.
The narrative structure in the novel is basically linear.
Stort set modifying 'lineær' (linear).
Den epistemologiske debat har stort set centreret sig om kilders troværdighed.
The epistemological debate has basically centered on the credibility of sources.
Stort set modifying the verb phrase 'centreret sig om' (centered on).
Fænomenet kan stort set forklares ud fra sociologiske principper.
The phenomenon can basically be explained by sociological principles.
Stort set modifying the passive verb phrase 'forklares ud fra' (be explained by).
Kunstnerens intention var stort set at udfordre betragterens perception.
The artist's intention was basically to challenge the viewer's perception.
Stort set modifying the infinitive phrase 'at udfordre' (to challenge).
Den metafysiske diskussion er stort set forblevet uafklaret.
The metaphysical discussion has basically remained unresolved.
Stort set modifying the verb phrase 'forblevet uafklaret' (remained unresolved).
Den semantiske betydning af ordet er stort set bevaret gennem århundreder.
The semantic meaning of the word has basically been preserved through centuries.
Stort set modifying the passive verb phrase 'bevaret' (preserved).
Colocações comuns
Frases Comuns
— Basically always; used to indicate something happens very frequently, with very few exceptions.
Han kommer stortset altid for sent til møderne.
— Basically the same; used when two things are very similar, with only minor differences.
Huset ser stortset det samme ud som før renoveringen.
— Basically finished; used when a task or project is almost complete, with only minor remaining parts.
Vi er stortset færdige med at pakke til ferien.
— Basically all; used to refer to almost everyone or everything in a group.
Stortset alle i familien kommer til juleaften.
— Basically impossible; used to describe a situation that is extremely difficult or highly unlikely to achieve.
Det er stortset umuligt at finde en parkeringsplads i centrum midt på dagen.
— Basically in agreement; used when there is a general consensus, though perhaps not absolute unanimity.
Vi er stortset enige om retningen for firmaet.
— Basically indifferent; used to express a lack of strong feelings or concern about something.
Han virkede stortset ligeglad med, hvad vi lavede.
— Basically true; used to confirm that a statement is largely correct, but might have minor inaccuracies.
Det, du siger om situationen, er stortset sandt.
— Basically free; used when something is very cheap or costs almost nothing.
De gamle møbler fik vi stortset gratis.
— Basically unchanged; used to describe a situation or state that remains largely the same.
Efter stormen er landskabet stortset uforandret.
Frequentemente confundido com
'Næsten' means 'almost' and implies being close to a specific point or completion. 'Stortset' means 'basically' or 'mostly' and refers to the majority or general state of things, acknowledging minor exceptions.
This phrase is very similar to 'stortset' and often interchangeable. 'For det meste' directly translates to 'for the most part' and emphasizes the majority aspect, very much like 'stortset'.
'Generelt' means 'generally' and is broader. It refers to typical situations or common characteristics, while 'stortset' is more about the extent of something being true or completed.
Fácil de confundir
Both 'stortset' and 'næsten' indicate that something is not fully complete or true, leading to confusion.
'Næsten' emphasizes proximity to a specific endpoint or state (e.g., 'næsten færdig' - almost finished). 'Stortset' emphasizes the majority or the general state, implying that most of it is done or true, with only minor exceptions (e.g., 'stortset færdig' - basically finished, meaning the bulk is done).
Jeg er <strong class='font-semibold'>næsten</strong> færdig med bogen (I am close to finishing the last page). vs. Bogen er <strong class='font-semibold'>stortset</strong> læst (Most of the book has been read).
This phrase is a direct translation of 'for the most part' and functions very similarly to 'stortset'.
They are often interchangeable. 'Stortset' might sometimes feel slightly more concise or idiomatic in certain constructions, especially when modifying verbs or adjectives directly. 'For det meste' is a more explicit phrase.
Han er <strong class='font-semibold'>stortset</strong> altid glad. vs. Han er <strong class='font-semibold'>for det meste</strong> glad.
Both 'stortset' and 'generelt' are used to make broad statements.
'Generelt' (generally) refers to a typical pattern, common characteristic, or a rule that usually applies. 'Stortset' (basically, mostly) refers to the extent to which something is true, completed, or applies to a group, emphasizing the majority part.
<strong class='font-semibold'>Generelt</strong> er vejret godt i Danmark om sommeren. vs. Sommeren var <strong class='font-semibold'>stortset</strong> varm i år.
Both words can indicate the primary aspect of something.
'Hovedsageligt' (mainly, principally) is used to identify the main component, reason, or focus among several. 'Stortset' is about the overall extent or generality.
Mødet handlede <strong class='font-semibold'>hovedsageligt</strong> om budgettet. vs. Mødet var <strong class='font-semibold'>stortset</strong> vellykket.
Both can describe a state of completion or truth.
'Fuldstændig' (completely, entirely) indicates absolute totality with no exceptions. 'Stortset' indicates a high degree of completion or truth, but explicitly allows for minor exceptions.
Opgaven er <strong class='font-semibold'>fuldstændig</strong> færdig. vs. Opgaven er <strong class='font-semibold'>stortset</strong> færdig.
Padrões de frases
Subject + stortset + adjective
Huset er <strong class='font-semibold'>stortset</strong> nyt.
Subject + stortset + altid/aldrig
Han er <strong class='font-semibold'>stortset</strong> altid glad.
Subject + har/er + stortset + past participle/adjective
Vi har <strong class='font-semibold'>stortset</strong> færdiggjort arbejdet.
Stortset + alle/meget/lidt
<strong class='font-semibold'>Stortset</strong> alle var tilfredse.
Subject + verb + stortset + adverbial phrase
Planen fungerer <strong class='font-semibold'>stortset</strong> uden problemer.
Subject + verb + stortset + prepositional phrase
Debatten handlede <strong class='font-semibold'>stortset</strong> om økonomi.
Subject + modal verb + stortset + verb
Det kan <strong class='font-semibold'>stortset</strong> ikke lade sig gøre.
Stortset + clause
<strong class='font-semibold'>Stortset</strong> var situationen stabiliseret.
Família de palavras
Substantivos
Adjetivos
Relacionado
Como usar
Very High. One of the most common adverbs in everyday Danish.
-
Using 'stortset' when 'næsten' is more appropriate.
→
Use 'næsten' for proximity to a specific endpoint, and 'stortset' for the majority or general state.
Mistake: 'Jeg er <strong class='font-semibold'>stortset</strong> færdig med at skrive.' (Implies most of the writing is done, but maybe not the very last sentence). Correct: 'Jeg er <strong class='font-semibold'>næsten</strong> færdig med at skrive.' (Implies I am very close to finishing, maybe just a few words left).
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Treating 'stortset' as an adjective modifying a noun.
→
'Stortset' is an adverb and modifies verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs.
Mistake: 'Det var en <strong class='font-semibold'>stortset</strong> god idé.' (Grammatically awkward). Correct: 'Det var en <strong class='font-semibold'>stortset</strong> god idé.' or 'Idéen var <strong class='font-semibold'>stortset</strong> god.' (The idea was basically good).
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Overgeneralizing when precision is needed.
→
Use 'stortset' for general truths, not for exact figures or absolute statements.
Mistake: 'Der er <strong class='font-semibold'>stortset</strong> 10 æbler i kurven.' (Implies approximately 10, but could be 8 or 12). Correct: 'Der er <strong class='font-semibold'>præcis</strong> 10 æbler i kurven.' (Exactly 10).
-
Confusing 'stortset' with 'fuldstændig'.
→
'Stortset' implies exceptions, while 'fuldstændig' means entirely, with no exceptions.
Mistake: 'Han var <strong class='font-semibold'>stortset</strong> enig med mig.' (Implies he agreed with most points, but maybe not all). Correct: 'Han var <strong class='font-semibold'>fuldstændig</strong> enig med mig.' (He agreed with every single point).
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Incorrect placement leading to ambiguity.
→
Place 'stortset' close to the word or phrase it modifies for clarity.
Mistake: 'Børnene spiser deres aftensmad <strong class='font-semibold'>stortset</strong>.' (Ambiguous - does it modify 'spiser' or 'aftensmad'?). Better: 'Børnene har <strong class='font-semibold'>stortset</strong> spist deres aftensmad.' (Basically eaten) or 'Børnene spiser <strong class='font-semibold'>stortset</strong> alt deres aftensmad.' (Eat basically all their dinner).
Dicas
Generalize with Confidence
Use 'stortset' when you want to make a general statement that is true for the majority, without needing to account for every single exception. It adds a natural, nuanced tone to your Danish.
Master the Uvular R
The Danish 'r' sound in 'stortset' is often uvular, produced in the back of the throat. Practice this sound to improve your pronunciation and make your Danish sound more authentic.
Listen for 'Stortset'
Actively listen for 'stortset' in Danish media (podcasts, TV shows, movies). Pay attention to what it modifies and the overall meaning conveyed. This is the best way to internalize its usage.
Stortset vs. Næsten
Remember that 'stortset' implies majority/general state, while 'næsten' implies proximity to a specific endpoint. 'Stortset færdig' means most is done; 'næsten færdig' means very close to the end.
The 'Big' Pie Analogy
Imagine eating a 'stor' (big) pie. You eat 'stortset' (basically) all of it, leaving only a tiny slice. This visual can help you remember that 'stortset' means almost all or most.
Adverb Placement
Typically, 'stortset' comes before the word it modifies (verb, adjective, or adverb). For example: 'Han er stortset altid forsinket.'
Active Use
Incorporate 'stortset' into your own speaking and writing. Try to use it in at least three different sentences each day to build confidence and fluency.
Explore Alternatives
While 'stortset' is common, familiarize yourself with synonyms like 'for det meste' and 'generelt' to add variety and precision to your Danish vocabulary.
Acknowledge Exceptions
The beauty of 'stortset' is that it acknowledges minor exceptions. Use it when you want to be truthful about a general situation without overstating its absolute nature.
It's Everywhere!
Don't be shy about using 'stortset'. It's an extremely common word in everyday Danish, and using it will make your speech sound much more natural and fluent.
Memorize
Mnemônico
Imagine a large pie ('stor' = big). You eat 'stortset' (basically) the whole pie, leaving just a tiny sliver. The 'set' could remind you of setting down your fork after eating most of it.
Associação visual
Picture a large, almost full glass of water. The water level is 'stortset' full, with just a tiny bit of air at the top. Or, visualize a large crowd where almost everyone is wearing the same color shirt.
Word Web
Desafio
Try to use 'stortset' in at least five different sentences describing things you did today, focusing on aspects that were generally true or mostly completed.
Origem da palavra
The word 'stortset' is derived from the adjective 'stor' (big, large) and the suffix '-set', which historically indicated a state or manner. The literal meaning can be thought of as 'in a big way' or 'largely'. It evolved over time to become the adverb we use today to mean 'basically' or 'mostly'.
Significado original: Likely related to a state of being 'large' or 'great' in extent or degree.
Germanic (Indo-European)Contexto cultural
The word 'stortset' is neutral and carries no negative connotations. Its use is appropriate in almost all social and professional contexts in Denmark. It's a functional word that aids clear, concise communication.
In English, 'basically' and 'mostly' are good equivalents, but Danish 'stortset' often carries a stronger sense of 'for all intents and purposes' or 'virtually entirely' than its English counterparts might suggest in all contexts.
Pratique na vida real
Contextos reais
Describing daily routines or habits
- Stortset altid
- Stortset aldrig
- Stortset det samme hver dag
Talking about projects or tasks
- Stortset færdig
- Stortset godt gået
- Stortset umuligt at nå
Giving opinions or general observations
- Stortset enig
- Stortset sandt
- Stortset ligegyldigt
Discussing quantities or populations
- Stortset alle
- Stortset ingen
- Stortset det meste
Describing states or conditions
- Stortset uændret
- Stortset stabilt
- Stortset roligt
Iniciadores de conversa
"Hvordan har din uge været, stortset?"
"Hvad synes du om den nye film? Er den stortset god?"
"Er der noget, der har ændret sig stortset i dit liv for nylig?"
"Hvordan går det stortset med dit arbejde/studie?"
"Hvad er dine planer for weekenden, stortset?"
Temas para diário
Beskriv en typisk dag for dig. Brug 'stortset' til at generalisere.
Tænk på et nyligt projekt. Hvordan gik det stortset?
Hvad er du stortset mest taknemmelig for i dit liv lige nu?
Beskriv en situation, hvor du følte dig 'stortset' ligeglad med udfaldet.
Hvad er dine håb for fremtiden, stortset set?
Perguntas frequentes
10 perguntasThe most common and fitting English translations for 'stortset' are 'basically', 'mostly', and 'for the most part'. Depending on the context, 'almost entirely' or 'virtually' can also work. It always implies a general truth with minor exceptions.
Yes, 'stortset' can be used at the beginning of a sentence or clause to introduce a general statement. For example: 'Stortset, var vejret godt under ferien.' (Basically, the weather was good during the vacation.)
'Stortset' is very versatile and used in both informal and neutral contexts. While it can be used in formal writing, very specific academic or legal texts might prefer more precise terms. However, in general formal discourse, it is perfectly acceptable.
The key difference lies in what they emphasize. 'Næsten' (almost) focuses on being close to a specific point or completion. 'Stortset' (basically, mostly) focuses on the majority or the general state, implying that most of it is true or done, with only minor deviations. For example, 'Jeg er næsten færdig' means I'm very close to the end, while 'Jeg er stortset færdig' means the bulk of the work is done.
Yes, 'stortset' is often used with quantifiers like 'alle' (all) or 'ingen' (none) to mean 'basically all' or 'basically none'. For example: 'Stortset alle i klassen bestod eksamen.' (Basically all in the class passed the exam.)
'For det meste' is a very close synonym and often interchangeable with 'stortset'. Both mean 'for the most part' or 'mostly'. 'Stortset' might feel slightly more idiomatic in certain constructions, but they convey very similar meanings in everyday language.
You should avoid 'stortset' when you need to be absolutely precise and there are no exceptions. In such cases, use words like 'præcis' (exactly) or 'fuldstændig' (completely). Also, avoid using it when 'næsten' (almost) is a better fit, as they have different nuances.
No, 'stortset' is an adverb, so it modifies verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. It does not directly modify nouns. For example, you say 'han er stortset altid forsinket' (he is basically always late), not 'han er en stortset forsinket mand'.
Yes, it can be used to describe a general state of a feeling. For example: 'Jeg følte mig stortset glad hele dagen.' (I felt basically happy all day.) This implies that happiness was the predominant feeling, even if there were brief moments of other emotions.
Absolutely. 'Stortset' is one of the most frequently used adverbs in Danish and is essential for understanding and speaking natural, everyday Danish. You will encounter it constantly.
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Summary
Stortset is a versatile Danish adverb meaning 'basically' or 'mostly.' It's used to generalize statements, indicating that something is true for the majority of cases or people, with only minor exceptions. It's extremely common in everyday Danish and helps convey a sense of general truth without needing to list every detail.
- Stortset means basically or mostly.
- It indicates a general truth with few exceptions.
- Common in everyday Danish speech and writing.
- Use it to generalize or summarize.
Generalize with Confidence
Use 'stortset' when you want to make a general statement that is true for the majority, without needing to account for every single exception. It adds a natural, nuanced tone to your Danish.
Master the Uvular R
The Danish 'r' sound in 'stortset' is often uvular, produced in the back of the throat. Practice this sound to improve your pronunciation and make your Danish sound more authentic.
Listen for 'Stortset'
Actively listen for 'stortset' in Danish media (podcasts, TV shows, movies). Pay attention to what it modifies and the overall meaning conveyed. This is the best way to internalize its usage.
Stortset vs. Næsten
Remember that 'stortset' implies majority/general state, while 'næsten' implies proximity to a specific endpoint. 'Stortset færdig' means most is done; 'næsten færdig' means very close to the end.
Conteúdo relacionado
Mais palavras de general
afbryde
B1To stop something from continuing
afbøje
B2To deflect or turn aside.
afgørende
B1Decisivo ou crucial. Usado para descrever algo que determina o desfecho de uma situação.
afholde
B2Realizar ou sediar um evento formal, como uma reunião ou eleição.
afhængig
B1Determined or decided by something else
afkorte
B2To shorten or reduce in length.
afmærke
B2Marcar ou delimitar uma posição ou rota. 'A trilha está bem sinalizada com marcas coloridas.'
afrunde
B2To conclude or make complete.
afslutte
B1Terminar ou concluir uma tarefa ou processo de maneira formal.
afsløre
B2Revelar ou desvendar algo que era secreto. 'Ele finalmente revelou o seu segredo' e 'A estátua será revelada amanhã.'
