verb
avta
let up
Definition & meaning
Avta means to diminish, subside, or gradually become weaker or less intense. It is usually used for something that changes in degree over time, such as wind, rain, pain, interest, or activity.
- The wind is subsiding — vinden avtar.
- Her pain gradually lessened — hennes smärta avtog gradvis.
Grammar & Word origin
Avta is a Swedish verb, usually intransitive: the thing itself diminishes or becomes less intense.
Its principal forms are:
The word is formed from av (“off” or “away”) and ta (“take”). In this compound, it describes something as gradually losing force or intensity.
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms:
- minska — “decrease”; a broad, neutral word for becoming smaller or fewer, while avta often suggests a gradual decline in intensity.
- mattas — “weaken” or “lose force”; especially close when describing intensity.
- klinga av — “die away”; often used for sounds or effects that gradually fade.
- ebba ut — “subside” or “die down”; commonly used of something that gradually fades or comes to an end.
Antonyms:
- öka — “increase”; a general opposite meaning to grow in amount or degree.
- tillta — “intensify” or “grow stronger”; a particularly close opposite when something gains force.
- intensifieras — “become more intense”; emphasizes increasing intensity.
Common phrases & collocations
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Examples
Regnet börjar avta nu.verb
The rain is starting to let up now.
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