otstå

Otstå is a Swedish verb that translates to "to endure," "to withstand," or "to hold out." It implies a capacity to bear or resist difficult circumstances, pressure, or hardship for a sustained period. The verb often suggests a passive but resilient form of strength, focusing on the ability to persist rather than to actively fight back.

The word can be used in various contexts, from enduring physical pain or fatigue to withstanding criticism or challenging situations. For example, one might say a building can "otstå" harsh weather conditions, or a person can "otstå" intense emotional stress. It carries a connotation of prolonged endurance, emphasizing the ability to last through adversity.

The etymology of "otstå" can be traced back to Old Norse, where similar words denoted resisting or standing against something. It is a common verb in the Swedish language and is frequently encountered in literature and everyday conversation when describing resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. The concept it represents is a fundamental aspect of human and even inanimate object capabilities when confronted with challenging forces.