återställa

Återställa is a Swedish verb meaning to return something to its original or previous state, to reestablish a condition or status, or to revive functionality that has been lost. The term is used in contexts ranging from technology and data to infrastructure, policy and cultural heritage. The core idea is restoration to a known or preferable state rather than simply repairing a damaged object.

In technology and data management, återställa commonly describes actions such as restoring a file from a backup or resetting a device to factory settings: återställa filen från backup, återställa datorn till fabriksinställningarna. In IT administration it can also refer to reinstating user accounts or system configurations after a failure.

In environment, architecture and preservation, återställa describes restoring ecosystems, buildings, artworks or landscapes to their former condition or appearance. In law, public policy and administration, the verb can mean reinstating former rules, rights or statuses, or reestablishing order after a disturbance: återställa ordningen.

Etymology and grammar: återställa is formed from åter- meaning “again” and ställa meaning “to place” or “to set.” It is a regular verb with the infinitive återställa, present återställer, past återställde, supine återställt, and the participle återställd (restored). Usage notes: the choice of återställa vs. other verbs such as reparera or återuppbygga depends on whether the emphasis is on returning to a previous state, rebuilding, or repairing a damaged object.

See also: återuppbygga, reparera, återinföra.