innerligt

Innerligt is a Swedish adverb meaning sincerely, wholeheartedly, or from the bottom of one’s heart. It is derived from the adjective innerlig, which describes feelings or sentiments that are deep and genuine. As an adverb, innerligt is used to emphasize the depth of a statement, sentiment, or appeal, often in formal or emotionally expressive contexts.

In everyday use, innerligt surfaces in expressions that convey true earnestness. Common constructions include tacka innerligt (to thank sincerely), hoppas innerligt (to hope sincerely), and be om ursäkt innerligt (to apologize sincerely). It can appear in letters, speeches, or spoken language when the speaker wants to stress authenticity or gravity. While it is widely understood and versatile, innerligt tends to carry a stronger sense of depth than more casual synonyms like hjärtligt (heartfelt) or verkligen (really).

Etymologically, innerligt is the adverbial form related to the adjective innerlig, which means heartfelt or sincere. The prefix inner- points to interior or deep feelings, reinforcing its emphasis on genuine emotion. In translation, innerligt is often rendered as “sincerely” or “from the bottom of my heart,” though the exact nuance may depend on context and tone.

For learners, noting the register helps: innerligt is perfectly acceptable in formal writing and earnest spoken language, but in lighter, everyday communication it may feel intense. Related terms include innerlighet as a noun for inner sincerity or depth of feeling.