Sakerna

Sakerna is the definite plural form of the Swedish noun sak, meaning things, objects, or matters. It is used to refer to multiple items or issues that are known from context or have already been mentioned. The word can denote physical objects as well as abstract matters, depending on the context.

Etymology and forms: The base noun sak has the indefinite singular en sak and the plural saker. The definite singular is saken, and the definite plural is sakerna. The definite plural suffix -na marks that the speaker refers to specific things previously discussed or identifiable in the situation.

Usage notes: Sakerna is most often used when the speaker refers to a defined set of items or issues. In contrast, saker (the indefinite plural) refers to some items in general. The phrase ta saken i egna händer (take the matter into one’s own hands) illustrates the use of the singular form in idiomatic expression, while sakerna can appear in sentences such as Sakerna på bordet är mina. Common synonyms include ting (more physical objects) and ämnen or frågor (matters or topics) in more formal contexts.

Examples:

- Jag såg flera saker i butiken, men jag köpte bara några av dem. (I saw several things in the store, but I bought only a few.)

- Sakerna på listan måste göras före lunch. (The things on the list must be done before lunch.)

- Sakerna som nämndes i mötet är viktiga för projektet. (The matters/things mentioned in the meeting are important for the project.)

See also: sak, ting, ämnen, frågor, svensk grammatik.