Question 1

How does the structure Livrädd som jag var work, and what exactly does it mean?

Accepted Answer

This is a fronted concessive clause. The structure is [Adjective] + som + [Subject] + var (or another copula verb). It translates to "As terrified as I was" or "Even though I was terrified". It highlights a contrast between being terrified and successfully mastering the panic attack.

Question 2

The word som is used twice in this sentence. Are they doing the same job?

Accepted Answer

No, they serve completely different functions. The first som is a conjunction used in the fixed expression Livrädd som jag var. The second som is a standard relative pronoun meaning "that" or "which", linking the panic attack to the relative clause som drabbade mig (that struck me).

Question 3

Why is the main clause inverted to behärskade jag instead of jag behärskade?

Accepted Answer

This is a perfect example of the Swedish V2 (verb-second) rule. The entire introductory phrase Livrädd som jag var counts as the first block of information in the sentence. Therefore, the main verb behärskade must come immediately after it, pushing the subject jag to the third position.

Question 4

Is drabbade the standard verb to use with panikattack?

Accepted Answer

The verb drabba (to strike or afflict) is highly typical for sudden, uncontrollable, and negative events like illnesses, accidents, or panic attacks. While you could use a simpler phrase like som jag fick (that I got), drabbade emphasizes the sudden and overwhelming nature of the attack, which fits perfectly with the strong adjective livrädd (terrified).

Livrädd som jag var, behärskade jag panikattacken som drabbade mig.

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