motsvara

Definition & meaning

The verb motsvara generally means to correspond to, to match, or to be equivalent to something else. It is used in several contexts:

1. Equivalence in value or quantity: To be equal in amount, value, or effect. For example, a certain sum of money might correspond to a specific amount of work.
2. Correspondence or consistency: To match a set of expectations, descriptions, or requirements. If someone's actions do not "motsvara" (correspond to) their words, they are acting inconsistently.
3. Representation: To stand for or represent something in a different context.

Grammar & Word origin

Grammar:

• Verb: motsvara (infinitive), motsvarar (present tense), motsvarade (past tense), motsvarat (supine).
• It is a transitive verb, meaning it is usually followed by an object.

Origin: The word is a compound of the prefix mot- (meaning against, towards, or counter-) and the verb svara ↗ (meaning to answer or respond). Historically, it implies "answering back" or "counter-responding" to something, effectively creating a balance or a match.

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

• Motsvarighet ↗ (noun form, meaning correspondence/equivalent)
• Stämma överens [?](vocabuo://word/stämma överens) (to be in agreement with)
• Svara mot [?](vocabuo://word/svara mot) (to answer to/measure up to)
• Ekvivalera ↗ (to be equivalent)
• Matcha ↗ (to match)

Antonyms:

• Avvika ↗ (to deviate/differ)
• Skilja sig [?](vocabuo://word/skilja sig) (to differ from)