mänsklig

Mänsklig is a Swedish adjective meaning relating to humans or, in a humane sense, showing compassion. It can describe physical, cognitive, or social traits typical of humans, and it is also used in ethical or philosophical contexts to refer to humane behavior or considerations.

Etymology and form: Mänsklig is derived from the noun människa, meaning a human being. The noun itself has roots in old Germanic languages and Old Norse, linked to the concept of a person or man. The suffix -lig forms adjectives meaning “pertaining to” or “characteristic of.” In usage, the form agrees with the noun it modifies: mänsklig natur (singular), mänskliga rättigheter (plural).

Usage and nuances: Mänsklig can denote what is inherently human, as in "mänsklig natur" or "mänsklig erfarenhet." It also appears in phrases about ethics or care, such as "mänsklig omtanke" or "mänskligheten," which means humanity or humanness. The plural form "mänskliga" is used with plural nouns, as in "mänskliga rättigheter." The term is distinct from humant or humane in certain contexts: humant emphasizes kindness or ethical treatment, while mänsklig tends to refer to human-related or human-centered qualities more broadly.

In discourse: The word is common in psychology, anthropology, philosophy, and public debate, often in discussions about what constitutes human nature, human rights, or humane treatment. It carries a neutral descriptive sense but can contribute normative nuance when paired with terms like rights, dignity, or welfare. Related terms include människa (the human being), mänsklighet (humanness, humanity), and mänskligheten (the humanity or the human race).