en ström

Swedish word: ström

Definition / Explanation in English:

1. Electric current / Electricity:
   In many contexts, ström primarily refers to the flow of electric charge, i.e., electric current. For example, when discussing electrical devices or circuits, ström means the current flowing through them.

2. Flow / Stream / Current (of water or air):
   More generally, ström can mean any flow or current, particularly in the context of water or air currents, like river currents or ocean streams.

3. Figurative meanings:
   It can also be used metaphorically to indicate a large stream or flow of people, information, or events.

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Similar words and differences:

• ström vs. el
  El is the word for "electricity" as a whole, the energy source or power system. Ström is specifically the flow of electric charge, "current."

  • Example: Elektriciteten (el) är säkrad — "The electricity is secured."
    Elektrisk ström — "Electric current."

• ström vs. flod / älv
  When talking about moving water:

  • Ström emphasizes the current or flow within a body of water.
  • Flod means "river," focusing more on the whole watercourse.
  • Älv can also mean a river, often a large or navigable one.

• ström vs. bäck

  • Bäck means a small brook or stream, usually a minor watercourse compared to ström, which can refer to a stronger current or flow.

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Summary

Ström is a versatile word meaning "current" or "flow," commonly used for electric current but also for natural currents like those in water or air. It's distinct from words naming entire bodies of water or general electricity.