At the A1 level, you should learn 'fungera' as a way to talk about simple everyday objects. You will mostly use it in the negative to explain that something is broken. For example, if your pen doesn't write or your phone is dead, you can say 'Den fungerar inte'. It is a very useful word for survival Swedish because it helps you explain problems to others. You don't need to worry about complex grammar yet; just focus on the present tense 'fungerar'. You might also hear it when someone asks you if a time for a meeting is okay, like 'Fungerar klockan ett?'. At this stage, think of it as the Swedish word for 'is working' or 'is okay'. It is one of the first verbs you will learn that doesn't involve a person doing an action like eating or sleeping, but rather describes the state of an object. You will see it on signs in shops or on public transport. If a bathroom is out of order, it might say 'Fungerar ej'. This is a very important word for navigating daily life in Sweden. You should also learn the informal version 'funka' early on, as you will hear it in almost every conversation. 'Det funkar' is a great, short answer to many questions. Remember, at A1, 'fungera' is your tool for identifying what is working and what is broken around you.
By A2, you can start using 'fungera' in more varied sentences and in the past tense. You should be able to say things like 'Igår fungerade inte min dator' (Yesterday my computer didn't work). You can also begin to use it with modal verbs like 'kan' (can) or 'måste' (must). For example, 'Bilen måste fungera imorgon' (The car must work tomorrow). You will also start to see 'fungera' used in social contexts, such as describing how a plan is going. If you are planning a party with a friend, you might say 'Det här schemat fungerar bra' (This schedule works well). You are moving beyond just 'broken vs. working' and starting to talk about 'effectiveness'. You should also learn the preposition 'som' with 'fungera'. 'Den här lådan fungerar som ett bord' (This box functions as a table). This allows you to describe things more creatively. At A2, you are also becoming more aware of the difference between 'jobba' (for people) and 'fungera' (for things). You might still make mistakes, but you are learning that machines don't 'jobbar'. You are also starting to use adverbs with 'fungera', like 'fungerar perfekt' (works perfectly) or 'fungerar dåligt' (works poorly). This adds more detail to your Swedish and helps you express opinions about how things are going.
At the B1 level, you are expected to use 'fungera' fluently in a variety of contexts, including abstract ones. You should be comfortable discussing how systems, rules, or relationships work. For example, you might explain how the Swedish school system works: 'Skolsystemet fungerar så att...' or talk about a relationship: 'Vi fungerar bra ihop'. You are now using the word to describe complex processes, not just mechanical ones. You should also be able to use the supine form 'fungerat' in perfect tenses: 'Det har fungerat bra hittills' (It has worked well so far). At this level, you start to notice the word in news articles or in instructions. You can understand more nuanced meanings, such as when 'fungera' refers to biological functions like how the heart or brain works. You are also expected to distinguish between 'fungera' and its synonyms like 'verka' or 'gå' in more specific contexts. You might use 'fungera' to discuss social issues, like whether a certain law is working for the benefit of the people. Your vocabulary is growing, and 'fungera' becomes a versatile tool for expressing how the world around you is operating. You are also more confident using the informal 'funka' in appropriate social situations while maintaining 'fungera' for your written assignments and professional interactions.
At the B2 level, your use of 'fungera' should be sophisticated. You can use it to discuss hypothetical situations using the conditional: 'Om det här inte skulle fungera, vad gör vi då?' (If this shouldn't work, what do we do then?). You are also able to use it in professional and academic settings to describe the functionality of theories, models, or complex machinery. You might use it in a debate to argue why a certain policy isn't working: 'Den nuvarande strategin fungerar inte på grund av...' (The current strategy isn't working because...). You understand the subtle difference between 'fungera som' (to function as) and 'tjänstgöra som' (to serve as, often for people in roles). You are also familiar with common idioms and fixed expressions involving 'fungera', and you can use adverbs of degree to precisely describe the level of functionality, such as 'fungera oklanderligt' (to work irreproachably/perfectly). At this level, you are also sensitive to the register of the word, knowing exactly when to use the formal 'fungera' and when the colloquial 'funka' is more appropriate to build rapport with native speakers. You can read technical manuals or psychological texts where 'fungera' is used to describe intricate mechanisms or human behavior with ease.
At the C1 level, 'fungera' is a word you use with total precision and variety. You can integrate it into complex sentence structures and use it to discuss philosophical or highly technical concepts. You might analyze how a metaphor 'fungerar' in a piece of literature or how a specific economic mechanism 'fungerar' within a global market. You are aware of the etymological roots of the word and how it relates to other Swedish words like 'funktion' and 'funktionär'. You can use 'fungera' to describe the 'inner workings' of a person's mind or a complex organization's culture. Your use of prepositions with 'fungera' is flawless, distinguishing between 'fungera för någon' (to be convenient for someone) and 'fungera på någon' (to have a medical or psychological effect on someone). You can also use the word in more formal, slightly archaic, or highly specialized contexts, such as in legal or medical Swedish. You are able to critique the functionality of anything from a software architecture to a social hierarchy using 'fungera' as a central verb in your analysis. Your ability to swap 'fungera' for more specific verbs like 'uträtta', 'prestera', or 'verka' shows your high level of linguistic mastery.
At the C2 level, 'fungera' is used with the effortless nuance of a native speaker. You might use it in a highly rhetorical way or within complex wordplay. You understand the most subtle connotations of the word in different dialects or historical contexts. You can use 'fungera' to discuss the most abstract existential questions, such as how consciousness 'fungerar' or the 'function' of art in society. You are also able to identify when 'fungera' is being used ironically or sarcastically in Swedish media or literature. Your command of the word extends to its use in bureaucratic Swedish (kanslisvenska), where it often appears in formal reports and official documents. You can effortlessly switch between the most informal street slang where 'funka' might be further modified, and the most elevated academic prose. For a C2 learner, 'fungera' is no longer just a vocabulary word; it is a versatile instrument that you can play in any key, whether you are writing a technical dissertation, a poetic essay, or engaging in a fast-paced debate on Swedish television. You have a deep understanding of how this word has shaped Swedish thought regarding efficiency, pragmatism, and social organization.

fungera em 30 segundos

  • Fungera is the standard Swedish verb for 'to work' in the sense of 'to function' or 'to operate'.
  • It is primarily used for objects, systems, and plans, rather than for people performing labor (which is 'jobba').
  • The informal version 'funka' is extremely common in daily speech and casual text messages.
  • It conjugates as a regular group 1 verb: fungera, fungerar, fungerade, fungerat.
The Swedish verb fungera is a cornerstone of the Swedish language, primarily signifying that something is operational, effective, or performing its intended role. While English often uses the versatile word 'work' to cover both human labor and mechanical operation, Swedish makes a sharper distinction. If you are talking about a machine, a system, a plan, or a biological process that is doing what it is supposed to do, fungera is your primary choice. It translates most directly to 'to function' or 'to work' in the context of utility. You will hear it in tech support when a computer is acting up, in business meetings when discussing a new strategy, and in social settings when checking if a specific time for a coffee date is convenient for everyone involved. It is a very neutral, common, and essential word for any learner reaching the B1 level.
Mechanical Function
Used when devices or tools are in working order. Example: 'Klockan fungerar igen' (The clock is working again).

Min gamla bil slutade plötsligt att fungera mitt på motorvägen.

Translation: My old car suddenly stopped working in the middle of the highway.
In abstract contexts, fungera describes how well a relationship or a society operates. When two people get along well and their dynamic is healthy, Swedes say 'De fungerar bra ihop' (They function/work well together). This extends to political systems, economic models, and social contracts. If a law is not producing the desired results, one might say 'Lagen fungerar inte som det var tänkt' (The law is not working as intended).
Social Dynamics
Describes the compatibility between individuals or groups. Example: 'Vårt team fungerar utmärkt tillsammans.'

Det nya schemat verkar fungera bra för alla anställda.

Translation: The new schedule seems to work well for all employees.
Understanding the nuance of fungera also involves knowing its informal cousin, funka. While 'fungera' is perfectly acceptable in all situations, 'funka' is ubiquitous in spoken Swedish and informal texts. If you want to sound more like a native speaker in a casual setting, you might say 'Det funkar!' instead of 'Det fungerar!'. However, in academic writing or formal reports, you must stick to the full form.
Biological Systems
Used to describe the health or state of organs and bodily processes. Example: 'Hjärtat fungerar som det ska.'

Utan tillräckligt med sömn kan inte hjärnan fungera optimalt.

Translation: Without enough sleep, the brain cannot function optimally.

Hur fungerar den här kaffemaskinen egentligen?

Translation: How does this coffee machine actually work?

Planen fungerade perfekt trots de korta förberedelserna.

Translation: The plan worked perfectly despite the short preparations.
Using fungera correctly requires understanding its conjugation and its relationship with prepositions. As a regular verb, it follows the pattern: fungera (infinitive), fungerar (present), fungerade (past), and fungerat (supine). It is rarely used in the imperative form ('Fungera!'), as you cannot usually order a machine or a system to start working by shouting at it, though you might do so in frustration!
Basic Present Tense
Describes current states or general truths. 'Internet fungerar inte' (The internet isn't working).

Min telefon fungerar bara när den är ansluten till laddaren.

Translation: My phone only works when it is connected to the charger.
One common construction is fungera som, which means 'to function as' or 'to serve as'. This is useful when an object or person is taking on a role that isn't their primary one. For example, 'Den här soffan fungerar som en säng' (This sofa functions as a bed). This is a very common way to describe versatility in objects or roles in a professional environment.
Role and Purpose
Using 'fungera som' to define a secondary or temporary function. 'Han fungerar som projektledare just nu.'

I nödsituationer kan en vanlig tröja fungera som ett förband.

Translation: In emergencies, a regular sweater can function as a bandage.
In the past tense, fungerade, you often describe things that used to work or a specific instance where a plan succeeded. 'Allt fungerade enligt plan' (Everything worked according to plan). This is a staple in reporting and storytelling. If you are describing a recurring problem that has been fixed, you might use the perfect tense: 'Nu har det äntligen fungerat i en vecka' (Now it has finally worked for a week).
Conditional and Modal Use
Often used with 'skulle' (would) or 'borde' (should). 'Det borde fungera nu.'

Vi visste inte om den gamla metoden skulle fungera i den nya miljön.

Translation: We didn't know if the old method would work in the new environment.

Det har aldrig fungerat att stressa fram ett bra resultat.

Translation: It has never worked to rush a good result.

Kan du kolla om lampan fungerar nu?

Translation: Can you check if the lamp works now?
You will encounter fungera in almost every corner of Swedish life, from the technical to the emotional. In a professional setting, it is the standard word for discussing processes and logistics. During a project meeting, a manager might ask, 'Hur fungerar kommunikationen i gruppen?' (How is the communication in the group working?). It focuses on the efficiency and the 'flow' of the work rather than the individual effort of the workers. In daily life, 'fungera' is a constant companion when dealing with modern frustrations. If you are at a train station and the ticket machine is out of order, you will see a sign saying 'Ur funktion' (Out of function) or 'Fungerar ej' (Does not work). If you are trying to pay at a grocery store and the card reader fails, the cashier will apologize saying, 'Tyvärr fungerar inte kortterminalen just nu' (Unfortunately, the card terminal isn't working right now).
Technology and IT
The go-to word for software, hardware, and internet connectivity. 'Sajten fungerar inte i Safari.'

Jag måste ringa supporten eftersom mitt lösenord inte fungerar.

Translation: I have to call support because my password isn't working.
In the realm of psychology and self-help, which is popular in Sweden, 'fungera' is used to describe mental health and coping mechanisms. A therapist might ask, 'Hur fungerar din vardag?' (How is your everyday life functioning?). This usage looks at the person's ability to manage tasks, social interactions, and emotional stability. It’s a very holistic way of asking how someone is doing without focusing solely on feelings.
Interpersonal Relationships
Discussing how well people interact. 'Det fungerar inte mellan oss längre' (It doesn't work between us anymore).

För att ett samhälle ska fungera krävs det tillit mellan medborgarna.

Translation: For a society to function, trust between citizens is required.

Vi har provat olika lösningar, men ingen verkar fungera på sikt.

Translation: We have tried different solutions, but none seem to work in the long run.

Det fungerar bäst om vi samarbetar.

Translation: It works best if we cooperate.
The most frequent mistake English speakers make is using fungera when they should use jobba or arbeta. In English, you can say 'I work at a bank.' In Swedish, you absolutely cannot say 'Jag fungerar på en bank'. This would imply that you are a piece of machinery or a system installed inside the bank. Always remember: people *jobbar* (perform labor), while things and systems *fungerar* (operate).
Fungera vs. Jobba
Use 'jobba' for employment and 'fungera' for operational status. 'Min bror jobbar mycket' vs 'Min klocka fungerar inte'.

Fel: Jag fungerar som lärare. (Rätt: Jag jobbar som lärare.)

Translation: Incorrect: I function as a teacher. (Correct: I work as a teacher.)
Another subtle mistake involves the use of the word 'gå' (to go). In Swedish, 'gå' is often used as a synonym for 'fungera' when talking about machines or clocks. For example, 'Klockan går' means the clock is working/running. However, you cannot always swap them. You wouldn't usually say 'Planen går bra' if you mean the plan is working effectively; you would say 'Planen fungerar bra'. 'Gå' in that context usually means 'to proceed' or 'to go well' (Gå bra). Confusion also arises with the word 'verka'. While 'verka' can mean 'to work' in a very abstract, chemical, or medicinal sense (like 'the medicine works'), it is more commonly used to mean 'to seem'. If you say 'Det verkar fungera', you are saying 'It seems to be working'. Be careful not to use 'verka' when you simply mean a machine is turned on and running.
Preposition Pitfalls
Using 'på' instead of 'för'. 'Det fungerar för mig' (It works for me) is correct. 'Det fungerar på mig' means 'It has an effect on me' (like medicine).

Medicinen fungerar inte på alla patienter.

Translation: The medicine doesn't work (have an effect) on all patients.

Det fungerar dåligt att kombinera de här två färgerna.

Translation: It works poorly to combine these two colors.

Hur fungerar det med skatten i Sverige?

Translation: How does it work with taxes in Sweden?
Swedish has several words that overlap with fungera, and choosing the right one depends on the level of formality and the specific context. The most important one to know is funka. This is simply a shortened, more casual version of 'fungera'. It is used constantly in speech. If a friend asks if you can meet at 5 PM, you say 'Det funkar!' (That works!). Using 'fungera' in that specific spoken context might sound slightly stiff, though never wrong.
Funka vs. Fungera
Funka: Informal, spoken, 'Det funkar fint!'. Fungera: Formal, written, 'Apparaten fungerar tillfredsställande'.
Another alternative is verka. While usually meaning 'to seem', it can also mean 'to act' or 'to have an effect'. In scientific or medical contexts, you might hear about an 'aktiv substans som verkar i kroppen' (an active substance that works/acts in the body). 'Fungera' could also be used here, but 'verka' emphasizes the action or influence being exerted.
Gå (as an alternative)
Used for machines (klockan går) or general progress (allt går bra). It's more about the 'running' state than the 'utility' state.

Den här metoden verkar lovande för framtiden.

Translation: This method seems promising for the future.
Then there is operera. In English, we 'operate' a machine. In Swedish, 'operera' is almost exclusively used for medical surgery or military operations. You do not 'operera' a toaster; you 'använder' (use) it or check if it 'fungerar'.
Spela roll
Meaning 'to matter' or 'to play a role'. Sometimes used when discussing how things work together in a system.

Det duger som en tillfällig lösning tills vi hittar något bättre.

Translation: It suffices as a temporary solution until we find something better.

Hela systemet brakade ihop och slutade fungera.

Translation: The whole system collapsed and stopped working.

Det löser sig nog, det brukar fungera till slut.

Translation: It will probably work out, it usually works in the end.

How Formal Is It?

Curiosidade

The Swedish word 'fungera' and the English word 'fungus' are not related at all, despite looking similar! 'Fungus' comes from a different Greek/Latin root meaning 'sponge'.

Guia de pronúncia

UK /fɵŋˈɡeːra/
US /fʊŋˈɡeɪrə/
Stress is on the second syllable: fun-GE-ra.
Rima com
planera studera diskutera leverera repetera fundera sortera motivera
Erros comuns
  • Pronouncing the 'g' like a 'j' (soft g). In 'fungera', it is always a hard 'g' because it follows 'n'.
  • Stressing the first syllable instead of the second.
  • Making the 'u' sound like the 'u' in 'fun' (it should be more like the 'oo' in 'foot' but more closed).
  • Shortening the long 'e' sound.
  • Pronouncing the 'ng' as two separate sounds 'n' and 'g'.

Nível de dificuldade

Leitura 2/5

The word is very common and easy to recognize in texts once learned.

Escrita 3/5

Requires remembering the 'g' and the regular group 1 endings.

Expressão oral 3/5

The pronunciation of 'ng' followed by 'g' can be tricky for some.

Audição 2/5

Easy to hear because of the clear 'e' and 'ra' ending.

O que aprender depois

Pré-requisitos

bra inte bil dator klocka

Aprenda a seguir

använda förstå lösa reparera system

Avançado

implementera optimera konfigurera operera manövrera

Gramática essencial

Group 1 Verbs

Fungera follows the pattern: fungera, fungerar, fungerade, fungerat.

V2 Rule (Verb Second)

Idag fungerar internet inte. (Verb is second even with adverb first).

Modal Verbs

Det kan fungera. (Modal 'kan' followed by infinitive 'fungera').

Att-infinitive

Det är svårt att få det att fungera.

Prepositional Verbs

Fungera som, fungera för, fungera på.

Exemplos por nível

1

Min klocka fungerar inte.

My clock/watch doesn't work.

Simple present tense negative.

2

Fungerar internet här?

Does the internet work here?

Question form with 'fungerar'.

3

Det fungerar bra för mig.

That works well for me.

Using 'för' to indicate convenience.

4

Lampan fungerar igen!

The lamp is working again!

Use of 'igen' (again).

5

Fungerar klockan nio?

Does nine o'clock work?

Common way to suggest a time.

6

Min penna fungerar inte.

My pen doesn't work.

Negative statement about an object.

7

Bussen fungerar som den ska.

The bus is working as it should.

The phrase 'som den ska' means 'as it should'.

8

Det här fungerar inte.

This doesn't work.

General statement of failure.

1

Bilen fungerade hela vägen till Stockholm.

The car worked all the way to Stockholm.

Past tense 'fungerade'.

2

Jag hoppas att min mobil fungerar imorgon.

I hope that my mobile works tomorrow.

Using 'att' (that) and present tense for future intent.

3

Den här stolen fungerar som en stege.

This chair functions as a ladder.

Using 'fungera som' (function as).

4

Varför fungerar inte teven?

Why doesn't the TV work?

Interrogative 'varför' (why).

5

Allt fungerade perfekt på festen.

Everything worked perfectly at the party.

Adverb 'perfekt' modifying the verb.

6

Det fungerade inte att ringa honom.

It didn't work to call him.

Infinitive 'att ringa' as the subject.

7

Kan du se om ugnen fungerar?

Can you see if the oven works?

Modal verb 'kan' with infinitive.

8

Mitt nya schema fungerar ganska bra.

My new schedule works quite well.

Adverbial phrase 'ganska bra'.

1

De fungerar väldigt bra som ett team.

They work very well as a team.

Abstract usage for social dynamics.

2

Hur fungerar det svenska skattesystemet?

How does the Swedish tax system work?

Discussing complex systems.

3

Medicinen har fungerat över förväntan.

The medicine has worked beyond expectations.

Supine form 'fungerat' in present perfect.

4

Det fungerar inte att bara ignorera problemet.

It doesn't work to just ignore the problem.

Using 'det' as a formal subject.

5

Vi måste hitta en lösning som fungerar för alla.

We must find a solution that works for everyone.

Relative clause 'som fungerar'.

6

Hjärnan fungerar på ett fascinerande sätt.

The brain functions in a fascinating way.

Biological context.

7

Tyvärr fungerade inte min gamla metod den här gången.

Unfortunately, my old method didn't work this time.

Word order with adverb 'tyvärr' at the start.

8

Hur fungerar den här appen egentligen?

How does this app actually work?

Use of 'egentligen' (actually/really).

1

Strategin fungerade utmärkt under de rådande omständigheterna.

The strategy worked excellently under the prevailing circumstances.

Formal vocabulary like 'rådande omständigheter'.

2

Det är oklart hur den nya lagen kommer att fungera i praktiken.

It is unclear how the new law will work in practice.

Future construction 'kommer att'.

3

Många undrar hur demokrati fungerar i kristider.

Many wonder how democracy functions in times of crisis.

Abstract political discussion.

4

Han fungerar som en brygga mellan de två avdelningarna.

He functions as a bridge between the two departments.

Metaphorical usage of 'fungera som'.

5

Planen skulle ha fungerat om vi hade haft mer tid.

The plan would have worked if we had had more time.

Past conditional 'skulle ha fungerat'.

6

Den tekniska lösningen fungerar oklanderligt.

The technical solution works irreproachably.

Advanced adverb 'oklanderligt'.

7

Det fungerar sällan att tvinga fram kreativitet.

It rarely works to force creativity.

Adverb of frequency 'sällan'.

8

Hela systemet slutade fungera efter uppdateringen.

The whole system stopped working after the update.

Verb 'sluta' followed by infinitive.

1

Vi måste analysera hur maktstrukturerna fungerar inom organisationen.

We must analyze how power structures function within the organization.

Sociological context.

2

Det är fascinerande att se hur språket fungerar som identitetsmarkör.

It is fascinating to see how language functions as an identity marker.

Linguistic analysis.

3

Trots motgångarna har samarbetet fungerat förvånansvärt smidigt.

Despite the setbacks, the cooperation has functioned surprisingly smoothly.

Complex adverbial phrase.

4

Man kan fråga sig hur rättsväsendet fungerar i sådana här fall.

One might wonder how the judicial system functions in cases like these.

Passive/General subject 'man'.

5

Dessa mekanismer fungerar ofta på ett undermedvetet plan.

These mechanisms often function on a subconscious level.

Psychological terminology.

6

Det fungerar inte att applicera gamla teorier på moderna problem.

It doesn't work to apply old theories to modern problems.

Formal verb 'applicera'.

7

Huruvida detta kommer att fungera återstår att se.

Whether this will work remains to be seen.

Formal conjunction 'huruvida' (whether).

8

Vissa organ i kroppen kan fungera oberoende av varandra.

Certain organs in the body can function independently of each other.

Scientific context.

1

Författaren utforskar hur nostalgi fungerar som en lins genom vilken vi ser det förflutna.

The author explores how nostalgia functions as a lens through which we see the past.

Highly abstract metaphorical usage.

2

Det är en komplex fråga huruvida marknadskrafterna verkligen fungerar självreglerande.

It is a complex question whether market forces really function in a self-regulating way.

Economic theory discussion.

3

Inom kvantfysiken fungerar naturlagarna på ett sätt som strider mot vårt sunda förnuft.

In quantum physics, the laws of nature function in a way that contradicts our common sense.

Scientific paradox description.

4

Vi måste ifrågasätta hur den sociala kontrollen fungerar i det digitala rummet.

We must question how social control functions in the digital space.

Critical theory context.

5

Hela hans existens tycktes fungera enligt en helt egen logik.

His entire existence seemed to function according to a logic entirely of its own.

Literary character analysis.

6

Det är problematiskt när byråkratin fungerar som ett hinder snarare än en hjälp.

It is problematic when bureaucracy functions as a hindrance rather than a help.

Political/Administrative critique.

7

Huruvida den mänskliga moralen fungerar universellt är föremål för ständig debatt.

Whether human morality functions universally is the subject of constant debate.

Philosophical inquiry.

8

Den poetiska bilden fungerar genom att sammanföra två till synes oförenliga ting.

The poetic image functions by bringing together two seemingly incompatible things.

Aesthetic analysis.

Colocações comuns

fungera bra
fungera dåligt
fungera som
fungera för någon
fungera i praktiken
sluta fungera
fungera felfritt
fungera ihop
fungera normalt
få något att fungera

Frases Comuns

Det fungerar!

— It works! Used when a solution is found or a device starts.

Jag tryckte på knappen och nu fungerar det!

Hur fungerar det?

— How does it work? A standard question for instructions.

Jag är ny här, hur fungerar kaffemaskinen?

Det fungerar inte så.

— It doesn't work that way. Used to correct a misunderstanding.

Du kan inte bara ta ledigt, det fungerar inte så.

Fungerar det för dig?

— Does it work for you? Used to check if a time or plan is okay.

Vi ses kl 10, fungerar det för dig?

Få det att fungera.

— Make it work. An instruction to find a solution.

Vi har problem, men vi måste få det att fungera.

Det fungerar utmärkt.

— It works excellently. A high-level positive feedback.

Den nya mjukvaran fungerar utmärkt.

Fungerar som den ska.

— Works as it should. Confirms everything is normal.

Bilen är gammal men den fungerar som den ska.

Ingenting fungerar.

— Nothing is working. Expressing total frustration.

Jag har en dålig dag, ingenting fungerar.

Fungerar bäst om...

— Works best if... Giving advice on the best method.

Det fungerar bäst om du värmer maten i ugnen.

Fungerar på sikt.

— Works in the long run. Discussing long-term effectiveness.

Vi tror att den här strategin fungerar på sikt.

Frequentemente confundido com

fungera vs jobba

English 'work' covers both, but Swedish 'jobba' is only for people at work.

fungera vs

Can mean 'work' for clocks or general progress, but not for all machines.

fungera vs verka

Means 'to seem' or 'to have an effect', but not 'to be in working order'.

Expressões idiomáticas

"Fungera som ett smort maskineri"

— To work like a well-oiled machine. Everything is efficient.

Logistiken fungerar som ett smort maskineri.

Idiomatic
"Få bitarna att fungera ihop"

— To make the pieces work together. Finding harmony in a complex situation.

Det är svårt att få alla bitarna att fungera ihop i projektet.

Metaphorical
"Fungera som en röd tråd"

— To function as a common theme (red thread) throughout something.

Temat rättvisa fungerar som en röd tråd genom boken.

Literary
"Det fungerar i teorin men inte i praktiken"

— It works in theory but not in practice. A classic skeptical phrase.

Din idé låter bra, men den fungerar bara i teorin.

Neutral
"Fungera som en katalysator"

— To function as a catalyst. To speed up a process.

Händelsen fungerade som en katalysator för förändring.

Formal
"Fungera som en bromskloss"

— To function as a 'brake block' or hindrance.

Byråkratin fungerar tyvärr som en bromskloss för innovation.

Metaphorical
"Fungera som en ögonöppnare"

— To function as an eye-opener. Something that reveals the truth.

Resan fungerade verkligen som en ögonöppnare för mig.

Neutral
"Fungera som en sista utväg"

— To function as a last resort.

Lånet fungerade som en sista utväg för företaget.

Neutral
"Fungera som en språngbräda"

— To function as a springboard. A starting point for something bigger.

Praktiken fungerade som en språngbräda till hans karriär.

Metaphorical
"Fungera som en buffert"

— To function as a buffer. To protect against shock or change.

Sparpengarna fungerade som en buffert under krisen.

Neutral

Fácil de confundir

fungera vs Arbeta

Both translate to 'work'.

Arbeta is for human labor or professional tasks. Fungera is for the operational status of a machine or system.

Jag arbetar på kontoret, men min dator fungerar inte.

fungera vs Verka

Both can describe effects.

Verka is 'to seem' or 'to act/have effect' (like a drug). Fungera is 'to function' (like a device).

Det verkar som att kaffemaskinen inte fungerar.

fungera vs

Both can mean 'to run' or 'to work'.

Gå is for clocks or progress. Fungera is more general for any functional system.

Klockan går, men radion fungerar inte.

fungera vs Operera

English 'operate' sounds like 'fungera'.

Operera is strictly for surgery or large-scale military/police operations.

Läkaren opererar patienten medan utrustningen fungerar perfekt.

fungera vs Duga

Both relate to something being okay to use.

Duga means 'to be good enough' or 'to suffice'. Fungera means 'to be operational'.

Den här gamla mobilen fungerar fortfarande, så den duger för mig.

Padrões de frases

A1

[Subject] fungerar inte.

Min mobil fungerar inte.

A2

Fungerar [Time] för dig?

Fungerar klockan tre för dig?

B1

[Subject] fungerar som [Role].

Soffan fungerar som en säng.

B1

Det har fungerat [Adverb].

Det har fungerat bra.

B2

[Subject] fungerar enligt [Rule/Plan].

Allt fungerar enligt plan.

B2

Få [Object] att fungera.

Vi måste få systemet att fungera.

C1

Huruvida [Clause] fungerar...

Huruvida detta fungerar återstår att se.

C2

[Subject] fungerar som en lins/katalysator.

Konsten fungerar som en katalysator för debatt.

Família de palavras

Substantivos

funktion (function)
funktionalitet (functionality)
funktionär (official/officer)
funktionsnedsättning (disability)

Verbos

funka (informal version)
fungera (main verb)

Adjetivos

fungerande (functioning/working)
funktionell (functional)
dysfunktionell (dysfunctional)

Relacionado

maskineri
system
metod
verktyg
effekt

Como usar

frequency

Extremely high in both spoken and written Swedish.

Erros comuns
  • Jag fungerar på ett kafé. Jag jobbar på ett kafé.

    You cannot use 'fungera' for human employment. It sounds like you are a machine in the cafe.

  • Min bil jobbar inte. Min bil fungerar inte.

    Machines do not 'jobba' (work a job). They 'fungerar' (function).

  • Det fungerar bra på mig. Det fungerar bra för mig.

    Use 'för' for convenience/schedules. 'På' is for medical or direct effects.

  • Klockan fungerar rätt. Klockan går rätt.

    While 'fungerar' isn't totally wrong, 'går' is the idiomatic way to say a clock is showing the right time.

  • Jag ska operera min dator. Jag ska laga min dator (eller se om den fungerar).

    'Operera' is only for surgery. Use 'fungera' to check status or 'laga' to fix.

Dicas

Verb Group 1

Fungera is an 'ar-verb'. Remember the sequence: fungera, fungerar, fungerade, fungerat. It is very predictable.

Tech Talk

If your app crashes, say 'Appen slutade fungera'. It is the most natural way to describe software failure.

Checking In

Use 'Fungerar det?' to check if a plan is okay. It’s less direct than 'Is it okay?' and sounds very native.

Fungera vs Jobba

Always check: Is it a person earning money (jobba) or a thing being useful (fungera)?

The 'Funka' Shortcut

In 90% of spoken Swedish, people say 'funka'. Don't be afraid to use it in casual settings.

Fungera FÖR

When talking about people's schedules, use 'för'. 'Det fungerar för mig' is the standard phrase.

Fungera PÅ

Use 'på' when talking about the effect of medicine or a method on a person. 'Medicinen fungerar på mig'.

Formal Contexts

In essays, use 'fungera' to describe how a system achieves its goals. It sounds objective and precise.

Listen for the 'G'

The 'g' in fungera is hard, like in 'go'. Don't confuse it with the soft 'g' (j-sound) found in other words.

Function-era

Link 'fungera' to 'function'. They share the same Latin root and the same core meaning.

Memorize

Mnemônico

Think of a 'FUN-GEAR'. If the gear is spinning, the machine is 'FUNgering' (functioning). It's a 'fun gear' because it actually works!

Associação visual

Imagine a giant neon green checkmark appearing over a computer screen that just started working. The checkmark is shaped like the letter 'F' for 'fungera'.

Word Web

Maskin Plan System Relation Arbete Teknik Effekt Lösning

Desafio

Try to find five things in your room right now and say out loud whether they 'fungerar' or 'fungerar inte'. For example: 'Min lampa fungerar' or 'Min gamla klocka fungerar inte'.

Origem da palavra

Derived from the Latin verb 'fungi', which means 'to perform, execute, or discharge a duty'. It entered the Swedish language through German influence in the 17th century.

Significado original: To perform a specific task or duty.

Indo-European (Latin root via Germanic path).

Contexto cultural

When discussing people with disabilities, be careful with 'fungera'. Use 'funktionsnedsättning' (disability) rather than saying a person doesn't 'fungerar'.

English speakers often over-use 'work'. Remember to separate 'jobba' (employment) from 'fungera' (function).

The phrase 'Det fungerar!' is often used in Swedish dubs of mad scientist movies. Swedish tech companies like Spotify and IKEA use 'fungera' extensively in their internal documentation. The concept of 'den fungerande människan' (the functioning human) is a theme in some Swedish sociology.

Pratique na vida real

Contextos reais

Technology

  • Min mobil fungerar inte.
  • Internet fungerar långsamt.
  • Hur fungerar mjukvaran?
  • Starta om för att få det att fungera.

Scheduling

  • Fungerar måndag kl 10?
  • Det fungerar tyvärr inte för mig.
  • Vilken tid fungerar bäst?
  • Alla tider fungerar.

Social Situations

  • Vi fungerar bra som vänner.
  • Det fungerar inte mellan oss.
  • Hur fungerar er relation?
  • Gruppen fungerar bra ihop.

Problem Solving

  • Vi måste få det att fungera.
  • Ingen lösning fungerar.
  • Det här kan fungera.
  • Varför fungerar det inte?

Instructions

  • Så här fungerar maskinen.
  • Läs om hur det fungerar.
  • Fungerar den på batterier?
  • Kontrollera att allt fungerar.

Iniciadores de conversa

"Hur fungerar kollektivtrafiken i din stad?"

"Fungerar din dator bra eller har du problem med den?"

"Vilken tid fungerar bäst för vårt nästa möte?"

"Tror du att den här nya planen kommer att fungera?"

"Hur fungerar det egentligen när man söker jobb i Sverige?"

Temas para diário

Skriv om en gång när något viktigt slutade fungera för dig.

Hur fungerar din perfekta morgonrutin?

Beskriv hur ett projekt på ditt jobb eller i skolan fungerar.

Vad gör du när tekniken inte fungerar som den ska?

Reflektera över hur samarbetet i din familj eller vänkrets fungerar.

Perguntas frequentes

10 perguntas

No, you should use 'jobba' or 'arbeta'. 'Fungera' is for things, systems, or how well a person's brain or body works. Saying 'Jag fungerar på en bank' sounds like you are a robot.

'Funka' is the informal, shortened version of 'fungera'. You use 'funka' when talking to friends or in casual emails. 'Fungera' is the standard form for all other situations.

You say 'Det fungerar inte'. If you want to be informal, you can say 'Det funkar inte'.

Yes, it is a group 1 verb. This means it ends in -ar in the present tense (fungerar) and -ade in the past tense (fungerade).

Yes, in the context of scheduling. 'Fungerar det för dig?' means 'Is that okay/convenient for you?'.

Use it to describe something's role. For example, 'Min mobil fungerar som en väckarklocka' (My mobile functions as an alarm clock).

Yes, it is the standard word for organ function. 'Hjärtat fungerar bra' (The heart is functioning well).

The most direct opposite is 'inte fungera' or 'vara trasig' (to be broken/out of order).

Yes, 'De fungerar bra ihop' means they have a good, functional relationship.

Very much so. It is used to describe how theories, models, and social systems operate.

Teste-se 180 perguntas

writing

Translate to Swedish: 'My computer does not work.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate to Swedish: 'Does it work for you tomorrow?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate to Swedish: 'The plan worked perfectly.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate to Swedish: 'I hope it works.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate to Swedish: 'How does the system work?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate to Swedish: 'The medicine has worked well.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Translate to Swedish: 'This chair functions as a table.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Translate to Swedish: 'Nothing is working today.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate to Swedish: 'We must make it work.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate to Swedish: 'It doesn't work that way.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate to Swedish: 'The clock is working again.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate to Swedish: 'The app works slowly.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Translate to Swedish: 'They work well as a team.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate to Swedish: 'Does your phone work?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate to Swedish: 'It worked yesterday.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Translate to Swedish: 'The internet is not working.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate to Swedish: 'Everything worked according to plan.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

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writing

Translate to Swedish: 'It works best if you wait.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate to Swedish: 'Does it work for everyone?'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
writing

Translate to Swedish: 'The lamp works fine.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'It works!'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'The computer is not working.'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'Does it work for you?'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'It worked perfectly.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'I need to make it work.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'How does it work?'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'It has worked well so far.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'The internet works now.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'Does nine o'clock work?'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'The car works as it should.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'It doesn't work that way.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'My phone only works with a charger.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'Everything worked out in the end.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'The plan is working well.'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'The lamp works again.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'It works best in the morning.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'Nothing works today.'

Read this aloud:

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speaking

Say: 'I hope it works tomorrow.'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'How does the app work?'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
speaking

Say: 'It works for me.'

Read this aloud:

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
listening

Listen and write: 'Min dator fungerar inte.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Fungerar det imorgon?'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Det har fungerat bra.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Allt fungerade perfekt.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Hur fungerar systemet?'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Ingenting fungerar idag.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Fungerar klockan ett?'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Det fungerar inte så.'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
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listening

Listen and write: 'Min mobil fungerar igen.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Vi måste få det att fungera.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Lampan fungerar bra.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Planen fungerade utmärkt.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Medicinen börjar fungera.'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Fungerar det för dig?'

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listening

Listen and write: 'Det fungerar bäst så.'

Correto! Quase. Resposta certa:
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/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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