Jag mår bra
The English phrase "I am fine" is translated into Swedish as Jag mår bra.
Jag mår bra is used specifically to describe your physical or mental well-being, such as being in good health or feeling well.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of Jag (I), mår (feel/am doing) and bra (good/well).
Which one should you use?
Do not use Jag är bra to mean you are feeling well. While Jag mår bra describes your health and well-being, Jag är bra refers to your character or your competence at something, implying you are a "good person."
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid using Jag är bra when you want to say you are feeling well. This mistake can imply you are a good person or skilled at something instead of describing your health.
When do people say it?
It is considered polite to reciprocate a question about your well-being by saying Och du? (And you?).
Did you know?
- The Swedish word bra shares its roots with the English word 'brave' and the Italian word 'bravo'.
- While Jag mår bra is the standard response, a Swedish person might simply nod and say Jo, which is a special 'yes' used to contradict a negative question.
- In some social contexts, saying Jag mår bra can be seen as too formal, and Swedes might instead say Det är lugnt, which literally means 'it is calm'.
Examples in context
- Jag mår bra, tackI am fine, thank you
- Det går braIt's going fine
- Hur mår du? Jag mår bra.How are you? I am fine.
Example conversation
Emma and Lucas meet at a cafe.
- EmmaHej Lucas, hur mår du?Hi Lucas, how are you?
- LucasJag mår bra, tack. Och du?I am fine, thank you. And you?
- EmmaJag mår också bra.I am also doing well.
- LucasVad trevligt att höra!That is nice to hear!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries bra, jag, CC BY-SA 4.0.
