5 Things That Make Swedes Feel Awkward

Swedes are sometimes seen as awkward, or even rude, in social situations. However, this often comes from cultural differences and a preference for privacy, personal space, and subtlety. Let’s take a look at some of the seemingly ordinary things that can make Swedes feel uncomfortable.

» Updated:

» Published:

5 Things That Make Swedes Feel Awkward
Photo: Envato

Share this article

  1. Smalltalk
    I don't know about you, but I'm the only Swedish person I know who loves small talk. My family and friends even joke that my chatty nature is 'American' - which my friends from the US find absolutely mind boggling. Most Swedes tend to avoid small talk with strangers, so if you strike up a conversation at a bus stop or in a grocery store, you're likely to be met with a few confused looks.

  2. Going to someone’s house uninvited
    If you really want to surprise a Swede, show up at their home with a cake - unannounced. In Sweden, it is customary to call or text and plan a visit in advance. Dropping by “uninvited” is almost unheard of and will likely leave your host feeling awkward or caught off guard.

  3. Cutting in line
    Most Swedes believe in fairness and equality, and cutting in line - no matter your reason - is usually seen as very rude.

  4. Bragging (or simply talking “too” positively about someone or yourself)
    Sharing your child's or your own accomplishments with too much enthusiasm can come across as rude or out of place in Sweden. Even if you're simply expressing pride or excitement, it may be perceived as bragging in Swedish culture.

  5. Not splitting the bill
    Yes! You can make a group of Swedes very uncomfortable if you offer to pay for their bill. How so? Offering to pay for a group of Swedes can make them quite uncomfortable. Swedes value equality and community, and we're all aware of how pricey dining out can be. As a result, it's common for everyone to cover their own share of the bill.

Author

Saga V. BohinenS
By Saga V. BohinenFeature Writer & Columnist

More news

Electric Scooters in Sweden: What You Need to Know

Electric Scooters in Sweden: What You Need to Know

The Job Market in Sweden is Cooling Down - Significant Differences Between Industries

The Job Market in Sweden is Cooling Down - Significant Differences Between Industries

The Swedish Lunchbox Hack: Healthy, Protein-Rich, and Just $2

The Swedish Lunchbox Hack: Healthy, Protein-Rich, and Just $2

Poverty is increasing in Sweden - when is one considered materially and socially poor?

Poverty is increasing in Sweden - when is one considered materially and socially poor?

Sweden’s Privacy Paradox: Public Data That Criminals Can Exploit

Sweden’s Privacy Paradox: Public Data That Criminals Can Exploit

82-year-old Swedish TikTok star got 1 million followers in 6 months

82-year-old Swedish TikTok star got 1 million followers in 6 months

With a Strong SEK, More Swedes Fly Long-Haul - Tips to Stay Energized

With a Strong SEK, More Swedes Fly Long-Haul - Tips to Stay Energized

Sweden losing momentum globally in AI development

Sweden losing momentum globally in AI development

Record-breaking interest in Korean festival in Stockholm this weekend

Record-breaking interest in Korean festival in Stockholm this weekend

From Sweden to Silicon Valley: The Journey of Klarna's Founder

From Sweden to Silicon Valley: The Journey of Klarna's Founder

Stockholm Travel Guide 2025: Experience the Best of the City

Stockholm Travel Guide 2025: Experience the Best of the City

10 Stunning Places to Visit in Sweden This Late Summer August 2025

10 Stunning Places to Visit in Sweden This Late Summer August 2025

High Restaurant Hygiene and Food Safety in Sweden - Good for Tourists

High Restaurant Hygiene and Food Safety in Sweden - Good for Tourists

The Swedish Currency Revenge: What it means for your wallet and summer plans.

The Swedish Currency Revenge: What it means for your wallet and summer plans.

 Must-See in Stockholm, Sweden: Visit ABBA The Museum

Must-See in Stockholm, Sweden: Visit ABBA The Museum

Arlanda Stockholm Ranks 77th in 2025 Skytrax Survey: Proposals to Boost Its Competitiveness

Arlanda Stockholm Ranks 77th in 2025 Skytrax Survey: Proposals to Boost Its Competitiveness

Series on Swedish Sports - Orienteering a Scandinavian Invention

Series on Swedish Sports - Orienteering a Scandinavian Invention

Swedish national anthem lyrics - with translation

Swedish national anthem lyrics - with translation

Stockholm Rewrites the Global Tech Playbook with an AI Startup Surge

Stockholm Rewrites the Global Tech Playbook with an AI Startup Surge

All You Need to Know About CSN 2025 : Amount, Income Limit, and Higher Grant

All You Need to Know About CSN 2025 : Amount, Income Limit, and Higher Grant