avsevärt

Avsevärt is a Swedish adjective and adverb meaning to a considerable extent or significantly. It is used to express a notable degree when describing quantities, qualities, or comparisons, and can function both as an adverb (modifying verbs or adjectives) and as an attributive modifier before a noun phrase, as in ett avsevärt antal människor or avsevärt mycket arbete. In everyday speech the term is somewhat formal and often replaced by betydligt or märkbart, but it remains common in journalism, economics, and academic prose.

Etymology and related forms: avsevärt is built from the prefix av- plus severd, a form related to the older word sevärd, meaning noteworthy or worthy of notice. The related adjective form is avsevärd (noteworthy, considerable), while avsevärt commonly appears as an adverbial intensifier. The noun form avsevärdhet exists to denote noteworthiness or significance.

Usage and nuance: avsevärt conveys a stronger degree than many everyday synonyms, but it is still closer to formal language. It often appears in phrases such as avsevärt mycket, avsevärt större, or avsevärt bättre. Its use can emphasize impact, magnitude, or importance, for example in statistical reporting or evaluative writing.

Synonyms and contrasts: betydligt, märkbart, avmätt synonyms depending on context; obetydligt is a common antonym meaning insignificant. For precise tone, avsevärt is preferable in formal analyses, whereas everyday speech might favor betydligt or mycket.

See also: avsevärdhet (noteworthiness or significance), avsevärd (noteworthy, considerable).