verkar

Verkar is a Swedish verb that has two closely related meanings: to seem or to appear, and to operate or function. It is the third-person singular present tense form of the verb verka.

In the sense of appearance or perception, verka expresses an interpretation of how something seems to be. Examples include det verkar svårt (that seems difficult) or hon verkar trött (she seems tired). This usage often appears with phrases like verkar som att or verkar vara, to indicate a preliminary assessment rather than a definite fact.

In the sense of operation or functioning, verka means that something appears to work or to be in operation. Examples include maskinen verkar fungera (the machine appears to be functioning) or företaget verkar ha råd (the company seems to be doing well, in the sense of operating successfully). This meaning is common when observers judge the practical state or performance of objects, systems, or organizations.

Grammar and usage notes: verka is typically used with present tense subjects and can be paired with att or with clauses to convey seeming rather than certainty. The perfect form is har verkat (has seemed/has functioned). Related expressions include att verka vara, att verka som om, and synonyms such as tycks or förefaller, which also convey appearance or impression.

Originating from the Old Norse/Proto-Germanic root for “to work,” verka has evolved to cover both perceptual and functional senses in modern Swedish. It is a common, versatile verb in everyday language and journalism.