besvær

Besvär is a Swedish noun that denotes trouble, nuisance, or inconvenience, and in medical contexts it can refer to symptoms or discomfort. It is used to describe a problem that causes difficulty or distress, as well as physical signs reported by a patient.

Grammatical notes: besvär is typically a common noun. Singular form is ett besvär, and the plural form is besvär, often used without altering the word when speaking of multiple issues. The adjective besvärlig means troublesome. The verb besvära means to trouble or disturb, and besvära sig means to trouble oneself.

Usage and meanings: in everyday language besvär can refer to general difficulties or irritations, e.g., “Det är ett stort besvär” (that is a big trouble). In medical contexts it describes symptoms or bodily discomfort, such as “besvär i magen” (stomach trouble) or “hostbesvär” (cough-related symptoms). The phrase “utan större besvär” conveys doing something without major trouble.

Etymology and cognates: besvär is related to the verb besvära (to trouble or disturb) and to a family of words meaning nuisance or difficulty. The term has cognates in neighboring Scandinavian languages; Danish and Norwegian use besvær with the same general sense, reflecting shared Germanic roots.

English equivalents and usage notes: depending on context, besvär can be rendered as trouble, nuisance, problem, or symptoms. In formal writing, it often appears in discussions of health, daily life difficulties, or complaints, while still conveying a neutral tone. See also related terms such as besvärlig, symptom, and bekymmer for broader nuance.