olikt

Olikt is a Swedish adjective meaning not like; different; unlike. It denotes a difference or dissimilarity between two or more things, people, or ideas. The word is most commonly used in predicative position after a linking verb, especially vara: “Det var olikt.” It can also express mutual difference with varandra: “Färgerna var olikt varandra” (the colors were unlike each other). For attributive use before a noun, Swedish typically uses neuter singular forms such as “ett olikt exempel.” For plural nouns, the common form is “olika,” as in “olika färger” (different colors).

Etymology: olikt originates from lik- (like) with the negating prefix o-, forming a word meaning “not like.” It is related to other forms such as likhet (similarity) and olik (different). The construction reflects a contrast between two or more items rather than a simple description of one item.

Usage notes: Olikt emphasizes contrast or dissimilarity rather than mere variation. In practice, it is used across contexts—from appearances and opinions to situations and outcomes. When comparing several items, speakers often prefer explicit phrasing such as “olikt varandra” for mutual difference, or use “olika” for attributive differences before plural nouns. The word remains most natural in formal or written Swedish, though it also appears in spoken language.

See also: likt, lika, olikhet, likhet.