Definition

Noun: 1. One of the two official languages of Norway: Landsmaal is a standardized form of the Norwegian language, distinct from Bokmål. It was constructed in the 19th century by Ivar Aasen based on a synthesis of rural Western and Central Norwegian dialects, with the intention of creating a language closer to Old Norse and separate from Danish influence.

Usage Notes

• Historical and Linguistic Context: The term "Landsmaal" is the traditional name. In 1929, it was officially renamed Nynorsk (meaning "New Norwegian"), which is the term most commonly used today. When discussing historical contexts or specific linguistic developments, "Landsmaal" may be used.
• Official Status: Alongside Bokmål, it is one of Norway's two official written standards. Municipalities and counties in Norway are designated as either Bokmål, Nynorsk, or "language-neutral" for official communications.
• Usage: It is used in government documents, education, media, and literature, though it is less prevalent in written media and urban areas than Bokmål.

Examples

• Noun:
  • Ivar Aasen is credited with creating Landsmaal in the mid-1800s.
  • Some Norwegian poets preferred to write in Landsmaal to connect with rural traditions.
  • The newspaper publishes articles in both Bokmål and Landsmaal.

Advanced Usage

• "to write in Landsmaal": To use the Landsmaal/Nynorsk standard for written communication.
  • The author chose to write the novel in Landsmaal to reflect the characters' dialect.
• "the Landsmaal movement": Refers to the historical and cultural movement advocating for the adoption and use of Landsmaal/Nynorsk as a national language.
  • The Landsmaal movement was part of a broader national romantic period in Norway.

Variants and Related Words

• Nynorsk (n): The modern official name for Landsmaal.
  • Students can choose to learn Bokmål or Nynorsk as their primary written language.
• Bokmål (n): The other official written standard of Norwegian, derived from the Dano-Norwegian language of the cities.
• Dialect (n): A particular form of a language specific to a region or social group. Landsmaal was synthesized from many Norwegian dialects.

Synonyms

• Nynorsk: The direct and official synonym.

Related Terms (Not Synonyms)

• Official language: A language designated for use by a government. Both Landsmaal/Nynorsk and Bokmål hold this status.
• Standard language: A codified variety of a language used for public discourse. Landsmaal is a constructed standard.
• Constructed language: A language whose phonology, grammar, and vocabulary have been consciously devised. Landsmaal is based on natural dialects but was systematically created by an individual.

Noun

1. one of two official languages of Norway; based on rural dialects