fantastisk

Fantastisk is an adjective used in Swedish, Norwegian, and Danish to describe something that is extraordinary, wonderful, or impressive. It can refer to people, objects, events, or experiences, and is common in everyday speech as a strong positive evaluation. The word also appears as an interjection – Fantastisk! – and its adverbial form is fantastiskt, meaning “fantastically” or “in a fantastic way.”

Etymology and cognates: Fantastisk belongs to the same European word family as the English “fantastic,” ultimately tracing back to Greek phantastikos meaning “able to make appearances or create illusions,” via Latin fantastus and Old French fantastique. Cognates appear in German (fantastisch) and other languages, with the Scandinavian forms adapted to the local phonology and spelling.

Usage and nuance: While generally positive, fantastisk can be used hyperbolically in casual speech to emphasize admiration or awe. In formal writing, speakers may choose more neutral terms such as excellent or outstanding, depending on the context. In literary contexts, fantastisk can also describe works with imaginative or supernatural elements, or simply convey high quality of storytelling, depending on the speaker’s intention and register.

Regional notes: Although most common in Swedish, Norwegian, and Danish, the word is understood across the Scandinavian region and often mirrors its international cognates in tone and meaning. The exact connotations can vary by language and context, from everyday praise to literary or rhetorical emphasis.

See also: fantastic, fantastique (French), fantastisch (German), phantasy (historical related term).