Fredagsmys: The unlikely symbol of Sweden’s 'cosy Friday'

This is a list of key vocabulary and expressions from the article in order of how useful they are. The student must choose 6 items from the list to study in the lesson.

Fancy

To influence (something/ someone)

Appealing

To pick up

To be keen (on something)

To swap

Guilty

Booming 

To hang out (with someone)

To head

Mainstream

A quiz

To embrace

A slot

A choir

A gig

To take off

Deep-rooted

To bounce back

Prevalent 

Go-to

To be in awe (of someone/ something)

A craze

To foster (something) 

Merely

15 conversation-provoking questions related to the article.

1. What does the concept of ‘fredagsmys’ mean?

2. What does Leslie Alfredsson say about tacos?

3. What does Jonas Engman say about finger food?

4. According to the article, how do Swedish people like to spend their time after work?

5. According to the article, is the concept of ‘fredagsmys’ dying?

6. ‘A fredagsmys would be my ideal type of Friday night.’ Is this true for you?

7. ‘I used to eat a lot of Mexican food in my childhood.’ Is this true for you?

8. ‘Tacos – and other finger foods – help promote this feeling of togetherness, because they offer a sociable experience’ – Do you agree with this quote from Jonas Engman?

9. ‘During the week I do a lot of interesting activities after work.’ Is this true for you?

10. ‘My work schedule is perfect for me.’ Is this true for you?

11. ‘I never order food to my house.’ Is this true for you?

12. ‘There are no weekly family or social traditions in my country.’ Is this true for you?

13. ‘Watching TV together is a great family activity.’ Do you agree?

14. ‘My lifestyle is healthier during the week than it is on the weekend.’ Is this true for you?

15. ‘I love hosting friends in my house.’ Is this true for you?