färdigheten

Färdigheten is a Swedish noun (definite form färdigheten) meaning skill, proficiency, or dexterity. It denotes the ability to perform tasks, whether manual or cognitive, and can refer to a specific ability or to a broader set of competencies. In broader terms, färdigheten captures practical know-how gained through practice as well as natural aptitude.

Etymology and related forms: Färdighet derives from färdig, meaning ready or prepared, with the abstract-noun suffix -het. The term has cognates in other Scandinavian languages, such as Danish færdighed and Norwegian ferdighet. The plural form is färdigheter, and the definite plural is färdigheterna.

Usage and nuance: In Swedish, färdighet is commonly used in neutral, descriptive contexts, especially about capabilities in work, sports, arts, or daily life. It is often contrasted with kunskap (knowledge) and kompetens (competence). While färdighet emphasizes practical performance and outcome, kunskap emphasizes understanding, and kompetens combines both skill and ability within a given role.

Grammar and style: Färdighet is a common gender noun; indefinite singular en färdighet, definite singular färdigheten, indefinite plural färdigheter, definite plural färdigheterna. The term can appear in phrases such as färdigheten i att använda verktyg or färdigheter inom ett ämnesområde.

See also: Skill, competence, expertise, ability, proficiency. In educational contexts, färdigheter is often listed alongside färdigheter i läsning, skrivning eller matematik as core competencies.