anständighet

Anständighet is a Swedish noun referring to decency, propriety, and respectable conduct. It denotes the expectation that a person behaves in a way that is socially appropriate, trustworthy, and fair. The concept encompasses honesty, reliability, self-control, and consideration for others, and it is often invoked when evaluating whether behavior aligns with communal norms.

The term derives from the adjective anständig, meaning proper or fitting. In Swedish, anständighet is used both to praise conduct and to critique behavior that violates social norms. It appears in everyday speech, education, and moral discussion, and it can carry moral or reputational weight.

Culturally and historically, ideas of decency have shifted with social change. Anständighet reflects expectations about how one should treat others and conduct oneself in public and private life. In contemporary discourse, it intersects with concepts of equality, non-discrimination, and civil conduct, rather than merely preserving traditional manners.

Related terms include hederlighet (honesty) and skötsamhet (diligent conduct). Cross-linguistically, Danish anstændighed and Norwegian anstendighet are cognates. The English translations range from decency to propriety, depending on context.