Tilltalning

Tilltalning refers to the various ways individuals address each other in Swedish. It encompasses forms of direct address, honorifics, and the use of pronouns. Traditionally, Swedish society had a more formal system of tilltalning, influenced by class distinctions and historical customs. However, the concept of "enhetssvenska" (uniform Swedish) and a general societal shift towards egalitarianism has led to significant changes in how people address one another.

The most notable shift has been the widespread adoption of the informal "du" (you) instead of the formal "ni" (you, plural/formal). While "ni" still exists and is used for addressing a group of people, its use for a single person in a formal context has largely disappeared in most everyday situations. Even in professional settings, "du" is now common, with "ni" typically reserved for specific, often hierarchical, contexts or when addressing someone elderly as a sign of respect.

Beyond pronouns, tilltalning also involves using first names. In most Swedish workplaces and social settings, it is standard practice to use first names, regardless of hierarchy. Titles, such as "Doctor" or "Professor," are generally not used in direct address, although they may appear in written communication or formal introductions. The use of patronymics or surnames for direct address is very rare in modern Swedish, except perhaps in some older or very specific contexts. Overall, Swedish tilltalning emphasizes informality and equality.