verb

kunna

can

Att ha förmågan att göra något eller att veta hur man gör det.

Kunna (Swedish verb)

Definition:
"Kunna" means to be able to or can in English. It is used to express ability, possibility, or permission to do something.

Usage examples:

  • Jag kan simma. — I can swim.
  • Kan du hjälpa mig? — Can you help me?

Grammatical notes:
"Kunna" is a modal verb, often followed by another verb in its infinitive form without "att." For example, "Jag kan läsa" (I can read).

Similar words and differences:

  • Få: Also can mean "to be allowed to," but usually implies permission rather than ability.
    • Example: "Får jag gå?" (May I go?) vs. "Kan jag gå?" (Am I able to go?)
  • Måste: Means "must," implying necessity or obligation, not ability.
    • Example: "Jag måste gå" (I must go).

In summary, "kunna" is primarily about having the capability or possibility of doing something.

Make “kunna” part of your vocabulary.

Build your Swedish vocabulary with flashcards, audio and spaced repetition.

Examples

Klara kan spela gitarr.verb

Klara can play the guitar.

Vi kunde inte hitta nycklarna.verb

We could not find the keys.

Keep exploring Swedish

Learn words from the content you love.

Add words from websites, books and videos, then remember them with spaced repetition (SRS).