Language/Swedish/Culture/Fika

Fika - A very Swedish tradition

Fika concept

Fika is an integral part of the life of every Swede. Basically, fika simply means having a coffee. But it's so much more than that. It has been described as a social institution or even a phenomenon. Swedes love their fika. This gives them the opportunity to meet and hang out with friends.

Pronunciation

Fika [ˈfiːˌka]

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Fika at work

In many workplaces, fika is part of the regular daily schedule. In the morning, a fika at 10:00 a.m. and in the afternoon at 3:00 p.m.

Among consensus-oriented Swedes, fika is a great way to exchange knowledge, opinions about what is going on in the company and, in general, to bond with your colleagues.

What's on the fika table

The cup of coffee is essential for a fika. But, of course, not everyone likes it. Having a tea, soda, or other drink instead is just as good.

Most Swedes combine their brake with pastry, called fikabröd. Some of the most popular include kanelbullar (cinnamon rolls), chokladbollar (chocolate balls) and cookies.

History of the word "Fika"

The word "fika" originates from the word kaffi (coffee) in the 19th century - then the Swedes changed the positions of the 2 syllables and removed an "f".

kaffi → ffi-ka → fika

During Swedish history, coffee has been banned several times. Some Swedes didn't follow the rules and had to find a secret word to meet for "kaffi".

Video - Swedish Fika (the unwritten rules)

Swedish Fika (the unwritten rules) 🇸🇪 - Learn Swedish

Sources

• https://hejsweden.com/en/have-coffee-breaks-called-fika-swedish/
• https://forvo.com/word/fika/