behärskad

Behärskad is a Swedish adjective describing someone or something that shows self-control, composure, and restraint. It can refer to a person who remains calm and in control of emotions or actions, especially in challenging situations, as well as to a process, gesture, or behavior that appears orderly and well-managed. The term often carries a positive or neutral connotation, implying discipline rather than impulsiveness.

Etymology and form: Behärskad is derived from the verb behärska, meaning to master or control. It is formed with the participial suffix -ad. The noun form related to the concept is behärskning (self-control or mastery). The word shares a semantic field with phrases like emotionally regulated or well-composed.

Usage and nuance: In everyday Swedish, behärskad is commonly used to praise restraint or poise, for example in statements like “Hon var behärskad under press,” or “Ett behärskat uppträdande.” It can describe both individuals (a behärskad föreläsare, a behärskad ledare) and situations (ett behärskat uttryck). The term is often contrasted with impulsiv, hetlevrad, or omuskal, highlighting the value placed on steadiness and controlled behavior in formal or professional contexts.

Synonyms and related terms: självdiciplin, självbehärskning, emotionell kontroll, behärskning. Antonyms include impulsiv, hetlevrad, ostyrbar.

See also: emotional regulation, self-control, temperament.