Även

Även is a Swedish adverb meaning "also," "as well," or "even," with nuance depending on context. It is used to add information, emphasize inclusion, or mark something as surprising or beyond what was expected. In addition to its general use, even appears in the fixed conjunction phrase än "även om" meaning "even if" or "even though."

Usage and placement

Även typically precedes the word or phrase it modifies. Examples: "Hon lämnade även sin plånbok hemma" (She also left her wallet at home); "Även barnen förstod det" (Even the children understood it). It can introduce new information in a sentence: "Jag vill även nämna att ..." (I would also like to mention that ...). The strongest emphasis is often achieved when även introduces a surprising or unintended element, as in "Det var överraskande, även han deltog" (Even he participated).

Även om

A common construction is "även om," used to express concession: "Även om det regnar kommer festen att hållas" (Even if it rains, the party will be held). This usage creates a conditional or opposed clause that foregrounds the unexpected or contrary situation.

Nuance, register, and synonyms

Även is generally neutral to formal; in everyday speech, speakers may opt for också (also) instead, which is more common in casual registers. Synonyms and related phrases include såväl ... som ... (both ... and) and likaså, which can convey similar emphasis in balanced constructions.

Summary

Även functions as a versatile intensifier in Swedish, expanding statements to include additional elements or to highlight unexpected inclusions. Its role as a conjunction in även om is also a key grammatical feature in expressing concession.