How it works
In a simple main-clause statement starting with its subject, put inte after the finite present-tense verb. Unlike English “do not” or “does not”, Swedish keeps the main verb in its present form and places inte after it. The subject stays first. This lesson uses neutral negation of the whole statement. Word order in subordinate clauses comes later.
Subject + finite present verb + inte + rest.
| Statement | Target sentence |
|---|---|
| Affirmative | Jag läser här. |
| Negative | Jag läser inte här. |
See it in a sentence
Vi bor inte här.
We do not live here.
With subject vi first, finite bor precedes sentence negation inte.
Sara arbetar inte idag.
Sara is not working today.
Arbetar remains a present-tense verb; inte follows it in the declarative main clause.
Put it into practice
Try it yourself
5 questions, with feedback after every answer. No account needed.
