Swedish past tense
Sign up for free to get all information about private lessons and our available group courses (A1, A2, B2, B2, C1, C2)
Sign up for free Course informationsSign up for free to get all information about private lessons and our available group courses (A1, A2, B2, B2, C1, C2)
Sign up for free Course informationsWe offer both private lessons and organized group courses
Sign up for free to get all available courses or contact one of our teachers yourself!
Our offer
Hej! Today we will have a look on how to construct past sentences which are useful when expressing ourselves regarding events who have already happened. Whilst speaking Swedish you will often have to use the past tense, therefore it is important that you know how everything works!
The past tense is pretty simple and is employed the same way as the English language. It consists of the present tense and their supine form. You get the past tense by using the imperfect form instead of the present tense. The imperfect form is created by adding a suffix to the stem. Confusing? Don't worry this lesson will make you understand the past tense very quickly.
There are two tenses which express the past in Swedish. The past simple and present perfect, "Preteritum" and "Perfekt".
We distinguish five groups of verbs which follows;
Group I, Group II a, Group II b , Group III , Group IV ( irregular verbs).
Group I - most of the Swedish verbs belong to this group
Group II - vers that end with -s, -p, -t and -k.
Group III - those are short verbs that end with vowels, ie; bo, tro , må
Group IV - irregular verbs
Note! each form of the verb depends on the group that a verb belongs to.
Have a look at the following sentences;
Look at the table below in order to see how the verbs are constructed.
Infinitif | Past | Ending | Meaning | Group |
prata , träna | pratade , tränade | -ade | talk , train | Group I |
ringa, glömma | ringde, glömde | -de | call , forget | Group II |
läsa, köpa | läste , köpte | - te | read (learn) , buy | Group II b |
bo, tro | bodde , trodde | - dde | live (occupy) , believe | Group III |
komma , skriva | kom , skrev | några olika | go, write | Group IV |
Have a go at writing your own sentences and use the table as guideline if your are unsure.
In order to create the imperfect tense you add 'de' to the stem, however it will not be added if the stem ends with a voiceless consonant i.e: (f, k, p, s, t etc.) that's when you attach 'te'.
In regards to the supine (indifferent), it is formed by attaching 't' to the stem.
As this group consists of many irregular verbs, In the imperfect tense most Swedish verbs don't have a suffix. They simply just change the stem-vowel. In the supine, most verbs change the stem-vowel again and add 'ít' or 'at' at the end. Have a look at the table below for for examples.
Verbs | Stem | Imperfect | Supine | Perfect | Past perfect |
tala (speak) | tala- | talade | talat | har talat | hade talat |
ringa (call) | ring- | ringde | ringt | har ringt | hade ringt |
springa (to run) | spring- | sprang | sprungit | har sprungit | hade sprungit |
ha (have) | ha- | hade | haft | har haft | hade haft |
äta (eat) | ät- | åt | ätit | har ätit | hade ätit |
Rememer:
This tense is used to express something which has already happened and that has an influence on the present.
We hope you have enjoyed the lesson and have learnt on how to use and construct sentences using the past tense. Now have a look below at the short video on Swedish past tense. Why not go and have a look at the rest of the Swedish online course. See you soon!
Unlike in other platforms, all our teachers are manually verified by our professional team. Trust in the experiences of our students.
Hello,
my name is Domagoj, I am from Croatia but live in Sweden 10 years of my life. I live in a small town in the north of Sweden. I love Swedish language and can speak it on the level of native speaker. I have an experience of teaching Swedish and Croatian and I am ready to share my knowledge to anyone who has a wish to learn it. It doesn't matter what level or learning background you have, I have all necessary materials to teach you.
I like to travel and I am open for new cultures and people. In my leisure time I like to swim, go to the mountains and drink tasty coffee.
Subscribe for lessons with me, we will discuss all your wishes and needs and how we can achieve your targets.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Great lesson, Domagoj has a lot of experience and patience and gives lectures in a very simple way, excellent level of communication, I am very satisfied
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hi! I have a degree in teaching Swedish as a second language and have been working as a teacher of Swedish for over 8 years in Sweden. I can help you at any level of proficiency.
I can teach in Swedish, English or Russian. Depending on your needs and goals we can plan your course individually so that you can learn effectively.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
I am very happy with Julia, her lessons are at the same time flexible to accommodate my learning needs and focused on topics that may be of interest and stimulate me. Julia has remarkable knowledge and experience in teaching methods, she helps finding material both from manuals and news, social media and other dynamic sources. I can surely well recommend her!
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hello!
My name is Nora and I am born and raised in Sweden and have lived most of my life within Sweden. I love cats and my interests are reading books, swimming and travelling.
I have a bachelor in social work and have worked in both Swedish and English speaking environments. For instance as a school counselor in an English speaking high school and as an English teacher in Cape Town in South Africa for kids.
I am studying Spanish myself at the moment and I know how hard it can be in the beginning with a new language. I also know how much fun it can be when you start to actually be able to communicate in your new language. I believe every new language you learn is going to expand your way of thinking and make you grow!
I can offer both teaching for absolute beginners in Swedish, but also if you want to develop the language skills you already have. I offer a free trial lesson.
If you want to know more about me or the learning process, feel free to contact me!
Have a nice day!
/Nora
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Great teacher, great intro lesson. Learned about their unique letters, how they sound, and some swear words (at my request)
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hi! I have a degree in teaching Swedish as a second language and have been working as a teacher of Swedish for over 8 years in Sweden. I can help you at any level of proficiency.
I can teach in Swedish, English or Russian. Depending on your needs and goals we can plan your course individually so that you can learn effectively.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
The lessons are completely tailored to my wishes and level, with communication being paramount. In addition grammar and vocabulary are also discussed. Julia speaks clearly so that I can understand everything properly and carefully corrects my mistakes . I look forward to the next lesson .
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Ready to Elevate Your Swedish Skills? Book a Lesson Now!
Embark on a language-learning journey tailored just for you! Whether you're aiming for fluency, mastering pronunciation, or enhancing conversational skills, I'm here to guide you.
Why Choose My Lessons?
Personalized Approach: Every lesson is crafted to suit your unique learning style and goals.
Interactive and Fun: Say goodbye to dull lessons! Join me for engaging sessions that make learning Swedish a joy.
Proven Experience: With years of tutoring and teaching experience, I bring expertise and passion to every class.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
William is a very nice and competent teacher. My Swedish lessons are going very well and I can recommend him to anyone thinking about working with him. Thank you!
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hi everyone!
My name is Daniela, I am Italian and I come from a small town in Sicily, Southern Italy. I am a qualified Italian language teacher and a CELI examiner! I work in two language schools teaching Italian and I also teach English at school.
I love foreign languages, translating, reading and listening to music. Are you ready to start your language learning path with me? We are going to learn many things and to talk a lot, if you allow me to! Don’t worry if you’ve never studied the language before: everyone can attend my classes – from beginner to advanced students. You just need passion for what you're going to do and... a good Internet connection. Materials are provided by me!
See you online!
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Daniela is a great teacher, she is helping me with my Italian. The lessons always fly by because it it so easy to talk with her. She makes you feel very at ease and has a great way of keeping the conversation going, while in the meantime keeping an eye on explaining grammatical things and making sure you improve your vocabulary each time. Therefore the lessons have a nice balance between being very enjoyable as well as informative, which makes the learning process proceed at a very consistent pace. Definitely can recommend Daniela!
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hello,
My name is Tiska. I am a French Teacher with experiences with adults and teenagers in Public Education (USA) and Language Schools. I am holding a Master Degree in FLE (Teaching French as a Foreign Language).
Join a small group of learners of 2 or 3 for conversation lessons with me. An article or video to watch before the lesson and a conversation with personalized corrections during the lesson. This option saves you at least 10 euros per lesson on Colanguage.
Group opening:
Monday and/or Wednesday from 17:30 to 18:30 (French time).
Level: intermediate (B1)
Also, standard French lessons
- level A2 (low intermediate)
- 2 hours a week
- ask for schedule
Don’t know your level? Ask for a free level test.
I give Skype lessons to people who need or want to improve their French language. I like to use material from the internet (videos, article etc.) to introduce a theme which leads to a lesson and a conversation.
I like to create engaging learning with my students. I will give as homework a document to watch or to read with comprehension exercises so the time we have on skype is only speaking practice and explanation if needed.
I can help you prepare DELF-DALF Exams or work on specific needs (as professional French).
Really like to speak about all the subjects with the student especially those the student like so it gives the motivation to speak in the foreign language.
The free first lesson is organize to know your tastes, your level and your needs so we can plan the next lessons about the objectives you fixed.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Tiska is giving a great support to my 8 years daughter in this challenging period! We scheduled regularly lessons to improve her French language skill and to review grammars rules in a funny enjoyfull way. Super professional and very kind teacher!
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
-
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
I really enjoyed this lesson! Carina answered some questions I had and helped me in practicing talking. I found it extremely useful.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
In recent years I have worked as an Academic Director at a Language School in northern Spain. My job duties there included designing intensive Spanish & English courses for beginners’, intermediate and advanced levels, as well as teaching both on-site and via Skype. This constant interest has allowed me to become familiar with techniques and tools that are essential in today´s second language learning, such as the materials used by the Cervantes Institute and the most renowned publications and blogs in the field of language teaching. Most particularly, I have made extensive use of audiovisuals and creative writing activities in order to develop consistent, effective courses.
As an on-line teacher, I have steadily used different technology applications in language learning. My tasks as a teacher included setting homework and giving feedback to my students, according to their needs, on a regular basis, as well as keeping accurate register of their attendance and progress.
Graduated in Hispanic Philology and Masters in Applied French, I have always kept up with my teaching training and have recently completed a Cambridge CELTA course for English teachers This further training has provided me with the familiarity to different teaching methodologies, which have proven to be extremely useful in my classes.
My hobbies: art cinema, hiking, reading and watching and playing basketball.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
I wanted to refresh and improve my Spanish and I contacted Inigo because he 's certified in luinguistic. Inigo is very patient, professional and helpful. He provides well structured lessons, in a very friendly and good atmosphere which is really favorable for learning a foreign language. The lesson material is built around several support such as text, audio, video, etc. You can't be bored and it's nice to switch between the different materials along the hour. He's also fluent in French and English so he can switch from a language to another for any explanation if needed. I really enjoy my lessons with him and I definitely recommand him!
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Are you doing an Erasmus in Italy or Spain?
Are you came back recently?
Do you want a languages certification?
Here i am! I'm Andrea an Italian/spanish teacher that living in Spain. I got a Teaching Master and I'm working as italian teacher. Also, I have a C1 spanish level ( DELE certification) and I can teach you both languages.
Send me a request and we can find the best solution for you ;)
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
It's very useful to go through writing I have done and discuss other ways of expressing the same idea.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hello, everybody ! My name is Elena. I’m a native Italian speaker, I’m 49 years old and live in Turin. I am a certified CEDILS teacher, I graduated in Foreign Languages and Literature in Milan and have been working as a teacher of Italian for more than 10 years. I speak English and German. I attended specialization courses for Italian L2 teachers and I am interviewer for C1 PLIDA exam.
Are you seeking a friendly and dynamic study environment ? I got what you need. I am looking forward to being in touch with new students and organize pleasant, interesting and fruitful courses.
Do you wish to learn or improve your Italian to speak with your parents or friends? Do you need Italian for work or study ? Do you simply love Italian language and culture ? Do you need to improve your writing skills ?
My classes are tailored on your needs and considering your level of knowledge, I create a proper course plan. Classes focus on language and on the possibility for you to improve your ability to speak and understand Italian in your daily life or in work.
I offer 1-to-1 or 2-to-1 tuition, general Italian courses (grammar, conversation, listening, reading and writing), preparation to Italian examinations (all levels, also Italian for residence permit) and Italian and culture courses.
Grammar, vocabulary exercises, reading articles and magazines and talking together are all tools to feel at ease with the Italian language and then be able to practice it.
I have worked with children, adolescents and adults for all levels of Italian, from beginner to advanced. I have experience in preparing students to international certification (CILS, PLIDA). I was an A2/B1 Telc examiner.
Learning Italian can be closely related to culture, literature, music, sport and any other interest of my students.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Elena is absolutely fantastic and extremely helpful in preparing me at short notice for a PLIDA B2 exam. Great teacher, lovely person and I'd highly reccommend her to anyone in need of suport in learning italian.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Lithuanian language is one of the Baltic countries languages. Some people are travelling to Lithuania, some of them are working or studying over there. So it's really good to know how to say very simple words, as hello, how are you, good mornng, thank you, you're welcome, where, how and etc. It's necessary because the main language is Lithuanian in that country
I am lithuanian and was learning other languages. So I can understand you very well, how do you feel in foreign country without language. You want to say something, ask or express yourself, but you can't. I would like to teach you. I like helping people and I have almost 10 years experience in teaching with different age people from different countries and culturies. I think so, that we will spent very good time. Don't worry about nothing. The best thing is your desire. We have don't forget just be patiece. When we are sowing, we think about future, because in few months we can see results of our work. That helps us work little by little.
I would like to offer you lessons for beggners. In these lessons you will learn how to pronounce words, how to read. Also you will learn basic words and phrases and how to talk with another person in dialogue.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
The lessons with Salomeja are really enjoyable! She's fun, kind and her teaching style is motivational. If you're looking to learn Lithuanian, I'd recommend her big time!
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
My name is Brenda and I am born in the Netherlands. At the moment I live in Nijmegen, the oldest city of the Netherlands. A lot of foreign students live here because it is a university city.
I have been interested in languages from an early age. That is why I have learned English, German, French and Spanish. But in my area I am mainly known for my excellent Dutch language skills and my eye for spelling and grammar.
Other things that interest me are cooking and baking and being creative. As a volunteer I have given guided tours and I have done workshops in both English and Dutch. I also love walking in nature or enjoying the beach and the sea!
I am currently learning Turkish, so I fully understand what you are experiencing as a language student. That’s why I am very patient. We practice as much as what you need. Is there something you don’t understand? Feel free to ask again, then we can approach the material in a different way so that it is clear for you.
I also know from experience how great it feels when you can communicate with someone in the local language! So let's go for this challenge together!
Your needs and progress as a student are central.
Please indicate before the first lesson what you would like to work on so that I can prepare myself for the lesson. A number of options are:
- Preparation for the integration course (inburgeringscursus)
Speaking, listening, reading and writing. Cultural and work-related topics.
- Beginners - Advanced (Personalized Lessons) Dutch
We can focus on every aspect of the language. When you want to learn from a book we can use your material or I will advise you which book you can purchase.
As a beginner you start with the basics, the alphabet and some basic words. We extend this so that you can start simple conversations in situations of everyday life and that you become an advanced!
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Brenda is a very patient teacher - she immediately put me at ease and we slowly worked through each exercise. She kept us on pace without feeling like a drill sergeant. She is incredibly friendly and you feel comfortable with her very quickly. She was also very flexible and communicative in finding a lesson time and answering all of my questions and concerns. Highly recommend!
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hello, my name is Eva. I am from a beautiful country called Slovenia. I am a language teacher with more than 10 years of experience. I teach children and adults. My specialty is to adapt to the needs of each individual and thus achieve the maximum effect in the shortest possible time. I teach Slovenian, which is my mother tongue, and I teach it in English, Russian, and Spanish. For children and for those who don't like learning too much, I try to make the lesson plan even more fun and interesting than usual ;)
Immediately after the trial lesson, I will send you all the necessary material for the lesson, just get yourself a notebook and a pen and plenty of goodwill to learn ;)
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Eva was able to quickly determine my skill level and address my questions appropriately. She is very professional and personable. She was also very open to the goals and approach that I have and provided guidance in order to best improve my Slovenian language skill. I was provided with more than enough material to continue my learning on my own until we met again.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hello, everyone. My name is Tatiana
I am a professional teacher of Russian language and literature.
I have a master's degree in Russian language and literature and I am a fully qualified teacher of Russian as a foreign language. I am a native speaker. I am well acquainted with Russian culture and way of life. Therefore, I will gladly share my experience with our lessons.
I speak English freely.
I have been teaching for 19 years. I am a certified teacher of Russian (both native and foreign) and literature and a native speaker.
I offer one-to-one and mini-group lessons for students aged 4 and over.
I have developed popular programs for online learning:
Business Russian (levels A0-C1);
Russian for tourism employees (levels A1-A2);
Russian for a tourist trip to Russia (levels A1-A2);
Russian for bilinguals 1-4 grades (children 6-12 years old).
I would be happy to help you)
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Tatiana is a teacher with several years of experience in education, which provides students with the best educational support and material.
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
Tatiana A.Thank you Taisha.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials