förlåt

Förlåt is a Swedish word used to express apology. It functions as an interjection and as the imperative form of the verb förlåta, which means to forgive. In everyday language it is commonly used to say “sorry” or “pardon me,” either on its own or as part of a longer sentence.

Usage and nuance: Förlåt can be used in informal situations to acknowledge a fault or to seek forgiveness quickly. It can also appear as förlåt mig, meaning “forgive me” or “pardon me,” when the speaker wants to emphasize a request for forgiveness. In more formal contexts, speakers may choose ursäkta or jag ber om ursäkt, which are perceived as more polite alternatives.

Etymology and grammar: The word is derived from the verb förlåta (to forgive). As the imperative form, förlåt is directed at the listener and can be understood as an implicit request to forgive or overlook a minor wrong. The spelling includes the Swedish diacritic ö in för, matching standard Swedish orthography.

Usage in context: Förlåt is widely used across Sweden in spoken language and in writing, including messages, conversations, and social media. While it is versatile and commonly understood, its tone can vary from casual to respectful depending on context and intonation. In some situations, a more formal expression may be preferred.

See also: Ursäkta, Jag ber om ursäkt, Apology. Translations vary by language, with equivalents in English typically rendered as “sorry” or “pardon me.”