mittläge

Mittläge is a Swedish noun describing the middle or central position of something. The word combines mitt (middle) with läge (position or setting). Its usage is widespread across domains, but the core idea is a resting, neutral, or central configuration.

In technical and mechanical contexts, mittläge denotes the central or neutral setting of a control element such as a lever, switch, valve, or joystick. It is often the position from which movement in either direction is possible, or the inactive state of the device. For example, a three-position switch may have an upper, a lower, and a mittläge to indicate the central or neutral state.

In ergonomics and design, mittläge can refer to a neutral posture for limbs or hands when operating equipment, aiming to minimize strain during repetitive tasks.

In everyday language, mittläge is used metaphorically to describe a political or strategic middle ground between extremes, i.e., a centrist stance or compromise.

In safety, operating instructions may instruct users to “ställ instrumentet i mittläge,” i.e., set the instrument to its middle or neutral position.

Differences from related terms: neutralläge or centrumläge may be used in certain contexts, but mittläge emphasizes centrality as a physical or figurative position rather than a value judgment about neutrality.

See also: center position, neutral position, centrism.