Avhjälpa

Avhjälpa is a Swedish verb that means to remedy, to fix, to resolve, or to alleviate a problem, difficulty, or undesirable situation. It implies taking action to correct something that is wrong or causing distress. The verb can be used in a wide range of contexts, from technical issues to personal troubles.

For instance, one might avhjälpa a technical malfunction by repairing a broken device. In a social context, a person might avhjälpa a conflict by mediating a dispute. The term suggests a proactive approach to problem-solving, aiming to restore a normal or satisfactory state. It carries a sense of effectiveness and successful resolution.

The etymology of avhjälpa can be traced back to older Germanic roots. "Av" is a prefix often indicating removal or separation, while "hjälpa" means to help. Therefore, the literal meaning is akin to "to help away" or "to help out of a situation." This etymological connection reinforces the core meaning of active intervention to remove or mitigate a problem.

Synonyms for avhjälpa in English include: repair, fix, resolve, remedy, correct, alleviate, rectify, and solve. The specific English translation often depends on the nuance of the situation being described. The Swedish verb emphasizes the action taken to bring about a positive change or to remove an obstacle.