jag lär mig
In Swedish, "I am learning" is said as jag lär mig.
This phrase is used to state that you are currently in the process of acquiring a new skill or a specific body of knowledge.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase literally translates to "I teach myself" because the verb lära (to teach) is used alongside the reflexive pronoun mig (myself).
Which one should you use?
While jag lär mig specifically means you are learning something for yourself, the form jag lär is used when you are teaching something to someone else.
What mistakes should you avoid?
Avoid saying jag lär [subject], as English speakers often forget the reflexive mig. Using jag lär without mig incorrectly implies that you are teaching that subject to another person rather than learning it yourself.
Did you know?
- The word jag shares a common ancestor with the English word 'I' and the German word 'ich', tracing back to the ancient Indo-European root *eǵh₂óm.
- The reflexive nature of jag lär mig reflects a linguistic view that learning is an active process of teaching oneself.
Examples in context
- Jag lär mig turkiska.I am learning Turkish.This sentence shows how to use jag lär mig when referring to the Turkish language.Tatoeba #3009243 by ajje, translation #860098 by piksea
- Jag lär mig ungerska.I am learning Hungarian.This sentence shows how to use jag lär mig when referring to the Hungarian language.Tatoeba #8388315 by morbrorper, translation #8388045 by Adelpa
- Jag lär mig tyska.I am learning German.This sentence shows how to use jag lär mig when referring to the German language.Tatoeba #2318116 by Gulliver, translation #8387934 by Adelpa
- 2 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
A coffee shop where two friends are chatting about hobbies.
- KarlJag lär mig att spela gitarr.I am learning to play the guitar.
- AliceVad kul, är det svårt?How fun, is it difficult?
- KarlJa, men jag lär mig snabbt.Yes, but I am learning fast.
- AliceDet kommer gå jättebra, Karl!It will go great, Karl!
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries jag, mig, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
