kräftig

Kræftig is a Danish adjective used to describe someone or something as strong, robust, or vigorous. It can refer to physical strength, sustained effort, or a determined and energetic approach. In everyday Danish, the more common equivalent is kraftig, while kræftig is generally considered older, regional, or literary.

Etymology and relation to other forms: Kræftig is historically linked to the notion of power or strength and is often treated as a variant of kraftig. In Scandinavian languages, cognate forms exist in Norwegian and Swedish as kraftig. Today, kræftig tends to appear mainly in older texts or regional speech rather than standard contemporary Danish.

Usage and nuance: The word can be applied to people, animals, or efforts. For example, a kræftig mand might be described as sturdy or capable, and a kræftig indsats as a vigorous or determined effort. Because of its dated or regional character, kræftig may carry a more emphatic or rustic tone than kraftig when used in modern writing.

Related terms: The primary modern synonym is kraftig, with other related adjectives including stærk (strong) and energisk (energetic). Kræftig is not typically the default choice in contemporary Danish, but it appears in literature, historical writing, and regional speech to convey robust qualities or resolute action.