ärendet

Ärendet is the definite form of the Swedish noun ärende, meaning a matter, case, task, or business. In everyday and formal usage, Ärendet refers to a specific matter that is being discussed, decided, or handled—essentially the “case at hand” or the file relating to a particular issue.

Etymology and scope: Ärende originates from the root interés in tasks or duties that require attention. The term is commonly used across different registers, from casual conversation to administrative, legal, and governmental language. The plural form ärenden refers to multiple such matters, while the indefinite form is ärende.

Usage in everyday language: In ordinary speech, one might say, “Vad gäller ärendet?” meaning “What does this matter concern?” or “Jag arbetar med ett ärende,” meaning “I’m working on a case/file.” The definite form Ärendet is used when pointing to a specific matter that both speaker and listener understand.

Administrative and legal context: In public administration and law, ett ärende denotes a case file or matter submitted for decision. An ärende typically has a tracking number or docket, a status (such as open or closed), and successive notes or decisions attached to it. The term is common in agencies, courts, and municipalities to organize work and document progression.

Parliamentary and organizational use: In legislative bodies, ett ärende can refer to an item on the agenda that lawmakers must consider, debate, and decide upon. Committees process olika ärenden as part of their workflow, guiding policy and administrative outcomes.

See also: ärende, ärenden. The term is mainly used in Swedish to denote the specific matter under consideration, across administrative, legal, and organizational contexts.