Bäst

Bäst is a Swedish adjective-form that functions as the superlative of bra, meaning “the best.” It is used to indicate the highest quality or most favorable option within a set or category. In everyday language, it can describe people, objects, or situations, as in phrases like “Det här är bäst” (This is the best) or “hon är bäst i klassen” (she is the best in the class). The word can also appear in idiomatic expressions, such as “Det är bäst att…” (It is best to…).

Etymology and grammar

Bäst developed as the irregular superlative form of bra, a core Swedish word for “good.” The superlative suffix -st is a common feature of Germanic languages, and while regular forms exist for many adjectives, bäst represents a standard, widely used irregular development within Swedish. The term has cognates in neighboring Scandinavian languages, with related forms used to express superiority or excellence, though exact spellings vary by language.

Usage notes

Bäst is most often used predicatively or as part of fixed phrases. It does not typically appear as a attributive form before a noun in the same way as ordinary adjectives; instead, it commonly stands alone or with a linking verb, as in “Det är bäst” or “Det här är bäst.” It is also frequently seen in media and consumer contexts in headlines and reviews to signal top quality, sometimes in the phrase “Bäst i test” (best in test).

See also

bra, bättre, bäst i test

References

Further reading on Swedish adjective formation and the historical development of bo reflects standard grammar resources on comparatives and superlatives in Swedish.