5 Things That Make Swedes Feel Awkward

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.

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.

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

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.

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.