alltför

Alltför is a Swedish adverb that translates to "too much" or "excessively" in English. It is used to indicate that something is present in an amount or degree that is greater than is desirable, acceptable, or appropriate. The adverb is often followed by an adjective or another adverb to modify its meaning. For example, "alltför sent" means "too late," and "alltför ofta" means "too often."

The word "alltför" is a compound word formed from "all" (all) and "för" (too). The combination emphasizes the excessive nature of the quantity or degree being described. It can be used in a variety of contexts, both positive and negative, though it often carries a connotation of disapproval or regret. For instance, one might say "Det var alltför mycket mat" (There was too much food), implying an overabundance. Conversely, "Han var alltför snäll" (He was too kind) might suggest that his kindness was taken advantage of.

The usage of "alltför" is common in everyday Swedish conversation and writing. It serves as a concise way to express a surplus or an extreme. Understanding its meaning is crucial for comprehending nuances in Swedish communication, as it conveys a judgment about the extent of something.