Bestämma

Bestämma is a Swedish verb meaning to decide, determine, or fix something, and to set rules, boundaries, or arrangements. It can also be used reflexively as bestämma sig, meaning to decide for oneself or settle on a course of action.

In transitive use, bestämma takes a direct object: bestämma något. For example, Vi bestämmer datumet, meaning we decide the date. Lagarna bestämmer hur mycket skatt som ska betalas, meaning the laws determine how much tax must be paid. The verb can also govern what should be done, as in Vi bestämmer vad som ska göras, or vi bestämmer priset.

In reflexive use, bestämma sig för followed by a clause or gerund expresses a personal decision: Hon bestämde sig för att resa. The expression bestämma över can indicate exercising authority or control, as in Hon bestämmer över sitt team.

Grammatical notes: The verb conjugates as infinitive bestämma; present tense bestämmer; past tense bestämde; supine bestämt; imperative bestäm. A passive form exists as det bestäms, meaning it is decided or determined, and past passive bestämdes. The word is largely neutral in tone and common in both formal and informal Swedish.

Etymology and usage context: Bestämma is a native Swedish verb with broad usage across various domains, including everyday decisions, policy, and law. It is often contrasted with besluta, which can carry a slightly more deliberate or formal nuance, though the two are frequently interchangeable in many contexts.