When it comes to family, knowing how to express your relationships in a different language can be quite helpful, especially if you have Swedish relatives or are planning to visit Sweden. In this guide, we will explore the various ways to say “cousin” in Swedish. We will cover both formal and informal terms, as well as a few regional variations. So let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say Cousin
Formal ways of addressing family members are typically used in official settings, such as formal introductions or when discussing relatives with respect. Here are the formal terms for “cousin” in Swedish:
- kusin – This is the most common and generic term for “cousin” in Swedish. It is used to refer to both male and female cousins, and there is no distinction between older or younger cousins.
- förstakusin – This term, directly translated as “first cousin,” specifies a closer level of kinship. It refers to the children of your parents’ siblings.
- andelkusin – Occasionally used, “andelkusin” literally translates to “cousin by descent.” It specifically denotes a cousin who is related to you through a common ancestor, but not through your parents or siblings.
- syssling – Although not technically the same as a cousin, “syssling” refers to the children of your parents’ first cousins. It can be equivalently translated as a “second cousin” in English.
Informal Ways to Say Cousin
Informal terms for family members are commonly used in everyday conversations or when addressing relatives casually. Here, we provide you with informal ways to address your cousins:
- kusin – Surprisingly, the same term used formally is also the most common way to address cousins informally. It is versatile enough for both male and female cousins and is widely accepted in casual situations.
- förstakusin – This formal term can also be used in an informal context, particularly when you want to emphasize the closeness of the relationship with your first cousin.
- syssling – Just like “förstakusin,” “syssling” can also be used informally to refer to your second cousins. It is a more specific term and might be used when talking about family or genealogy.
- kusinbarn – When addressing your cousins’ children, you can use the term “kusinbarn.” It directly translates to “cousin child” and is a friendly way to refer to your younger cousins.
Regional Variations
In Swedish, the terms mentioned above are widely used throughout the country. However, there are a few regional variations that might be worth noting:
kollikusin – This regional variation is commonly used in the southern parts of Sweden, particularly in Skåne. It refers to a cousin from the paternal side of the family. The prefix “kolli” originates from the word “koll,” which means jaw in Swedish, representing the jawline resemblance often noticed in paternal relatives.
While “kollikusin” is not used extensively throughout the country, it’s interesting to be aware of these regional cultural nuances.
Examples and Tips
Now, let’s see a few examples of how you can use the different terms for “cousin” in Swedish:
- “Hej Carl! Det här är min kusin, Emma.”
- “Vår släktträff inkluderar alla mina förstakusiner.”
- “Jag träffade min syssling på bröllopet.”
- “Mina kusinbarn är så duktiga på piano.”
Remember, when using these terms, pronunciation is key. The Swedish language has a unique pronunciation system, so it’s always helpful to listen to native speakers or use online resources to practice.
Learning the appropriate terms for “cousin” in Swedish allows you to better connect with your family or friends in Sweden, showing your interest in their culture and language. So, take the opportunity to impress your Swedish relatives or friends with your newfound knowledge!
We hope this guide has been helpful in expanding your vocabulary and understanding of Swedish family terms. Lycka till! (Good luck!)
