Du är ful
The English phrase "you're ugly" is translated into Swedish as Du är ful.
While Du är ful refers to a person's appearance, it can also be used to describe an object or an action (like a ful idé – an ugly/bad idea) in Swedish.
Did you know?
- The Swedish word ful is an unexpected linguistic relative of the English word 'foul', both descending from the Proto-Germanic word for something rotten or stinking.
- Calling a gesture ful in Swedish implies that the act was unfair or 'dirty' in a competitive sense, such as in sports.
- In Swedish, describing someone as ful can sometimes refer to their behavior or character rather than their face. For example, a 'ugly' lie is en ful lögn.
Examples in context
- Du är inte direkt någon ögonfröjd.You are not exactly an eye-candy.
- Du är ful.You're ugly.
- Jag tycker att du är ful.I think that you're ugly.
Example conversation
Two siblings are arguing in the living room.
- OscarDu är ful, Linnea!You're ugly, Linnea!
- LinneaSluta vara så elak, Oscar.Stop being so mean, Oscar.
- OscarJag skojar bara.I'm just joking.
- LinneaDet var inte roligt.It wasn't funny.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries du, ful, är, CC BY-SA 4.0.
