skyndsamt

Skyndsamt is a Swedish adverb meaning “in a prompt and careful manner.” It is formed from the verb skynda, meaning to hurry, and the adjective skyndsam, which describes someone who acts with both speed and care. The suffix -t marks the form as an adverb in older Swedish usage, and the word is most frequently found in historical, formal, or literary contexts rather than contemporary everyday speech.

Definition and usage

Skyndsamt describes performing a task quickly while maintaining due diligence and accuracy. In older texts, it could convey a blend of expedience and careful handling, often in official or juridical writing. In modern Swedish, the term is largely archival or stylistic, with speakers more commonly using phrases such as snabb, snabbt, or snabbt och noggrant to express the same idea.

Etymology

The term derives from skynda (to hurry) and the related adjective skyndsam (prompt, expeditious). The adverbial form skyndsamt historically appeared in early modern Swedish and persisted in some formal registers before fading from common usage.

Modern relevance

Today, skyndsamt is rare in everyday language and is more likely to be encountered in translations, historical documents, or when a writer aims to evoke a formal tone. It remains relevant for linguistic studies of Swedish adverb formation and for understanding period-appropriate diction in older texts.

See also

Related concepts include skyndsamhet (promptness/expeditiousness), snabbhet (speed), and noggrannhet (carefulness).