Lagom, a Swedish Value/Virtue

Lagom (pronounced /ˈlɑ̂ːɡɔm/, LAW-gom) is a Swedish word meaning just the right amount or not too much, not too little.

The word can be variously translated as in moderation , in balance , perfect-simple , just enough , ideal and suitable (in matter of amounts). Whereas words like sufficient and average suggest some degree of abstinence, scarcity, or failure, lagom carries the connotation of appropriateness, although not necessarily perfection. The archetypical Swedish proverb "Lagom är bäst", literally The right amount is best , is also translated as Enough is as good as a feast, or as There is virtue in moderation

Cultural significance

The value of just enough can be compared to the idiom less is more, or contrasted to the value of more is better. It is viewed favorably as a sustainable alternative to the hoarding extremes of consumerism: Why do I need more than two? Det är [It is] lagom It can also be viewed as repressive: You're not supposed to be too good, or too rich.

Lagom is said to describe the basis of the Swedish national psyche, one of consensus and equality. My aunt used to hold out her closed fist and say, How much can you get in this hand? It's much easier to get something in this [open] hand.