Why learn Swedish?
A starting point for other languages
The Swedish language, which is spoken by about 10 million people around the world, is a North Germanic language and consequently is not too dissimilar to English and German. Swedish also has a lot in common with other Scandinavian languages, such as Danish and Norwegian. Latin languages, including French have equally influenced the language. Examples of loan words from French in Swedish are enorm (énorme/enormous), våg (vague/vague) and fåtölj (fauteuil/armchair)
Nature
Sweden is famous for its appreciation of nature and general environmentally-friendly outlook. Despite being one of Europe’s largest countries in terms of geographical area, Sweden is not a densely populated country. In fact, national parks and nature reserves cover a tenth of the country’s land area.
Food
Known primarily for its meatballs, lingonberries, cinnamon buns and open sandwiches, Swedish cuisine is rich and varied, offering the perfect nourishment after a long hike in the mountains.
Music
Did you know that Sweden is the country with the highest number of choirs per capita in the entire world? Pop music is also highly popular in the country, which perhaps comes as no surprise as Sweden is the birthplace of the world-famous pop band Abba. Other well-known Swedish musicians include Swedish House Mafia, Robyn, members of ABBA, The Hives, The Cardigans, Max Martin, Roxette and First Aid Kit.
Explore Swedish design
The homeware brand Ikea, which is associated with functionality at an affordable price, originated in Sweden. Known for its minimalism, Swedish design is simple and clean in style. In addition to furniture, the country is famed for its traditional crafts.
How to learn the Swedish language?
Learn online
Taking online Swedish classes with BiCortex is one of the most convenient ways to learn the language. It ensures you have contact with a native speaker without having to venture from the comfort of your home.
Individual classes
Although Swedish is considered a relatively easy language to learn, learning languages can take time. Many opt for the intensity one-one-one classes offer. Students may also prefer to go at their own pace, with lesson content focused on their areas of interest.
Look for cognates
Swedish is similar to other Scandinavian languages, such as Danish and Norwegian, but also shares many cognates with English, German and Latin-based languages. For instance, the Swedish word for ice-cream is glass, like the French glace, while printa ut is the verb for to print out in English.
Immerse yourself in Swedish culture
Language learning should be enjoyable and there is no better way to have fun than to dive into Swedish culture. Sweden offers a wide variety of exciting adventures for all types of travellers, from ice-hotels to steaming saunas. As you interact with native speakers, you will be surprised how quickly you cement your Swedish knowledge.
What is Sweden famous for?
Pop music
Sweden is the birthplace of the world-famous pop band Abba. There is even a museum dedicated to the band in Sweden’s capital city, Stockholm.
Green spaces
Sweden is one of the largest countries in the European world in terms of geographical area, yet is sparsely populated. As a result, green spaces abound. Sweden also ranks as one of the most environmentally-friendly countries in the world.
Design
The multinational homeware conglomerate, Ikea, originated in Sweden. Ikea reflects the minimalist, functional approach to Swedish design. Sweden is known for traditional crafts including glass and Sami handicrafts.
Food
Sweden is famous for more than just meat balls. From Kanelbulle, a cinnamon bun, to a wide variety of foraged berries, Swedish cuisine has something for all tastes.