beslutsam

Beslutsam is a Swedish adjective meaning showing firm determination or resolve. It describes a person who makes decisions confidently and pursues goals with perseverance. In English, the closest translations are decisive and determined.

Etymology and forms: The word comes from besluta, to decide, plus the suffix -sam, which conveys “characterized by” or “full of.” The related noun is beslutsamhet (decisiveness). The adjective inflects for gender and number (en beslutsam person, ett beslutsamt beslut; beslutsamma personer is the plural).

Usage and nuance: Beslutsam is commonly positive, highlighting clarity of purpose and the ability to act. In some contexts it can imply rigidity or inflexibility if taken too far. Example: “Hon var beslutsam att nå målet” translates to “She was determined to reach the goal.” Synonyms include målmedveten and resolut; antonyms include beslutslös (indecisive) and osäker (uncertain), or vacklande (wavering).

Context and register: The term is widely used in everyday Swedish as well as in professional, leadership, and entrepreneurial discourse. Its connotation tends toward admiration for steadfastness, though it may be perceived negatively if it clashes with collaborative or flexible requirements.

See also: Decisive, resolute, and related Swedish terms such as beslutskraft and målmedvetenhet.