Definition

Noun: * New Norwegian: One of the two official written standards of the Norwegian language, alongside Bokmål. It was constructed in the 19th century by Ivar Aasen based on a synthesis of rural Western and Central Norwegian dialects, with the aim of creating a distinct Norwegian language less influenced by Danish.

Usage

• New Norwegian is used as a proper noun to name this specific language standard.
  • The author chose to write the novel in New Norwegian to connect with the rural heritage.
  • Both New Norwegian and Bokmål have equal official status in Norway.
  • Learning New Norwegian provides insight into Norway's linguistic history.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in linguistic, educational, and cultural discussions about Norway's language planning and identity.
  • The debate between New Norwegian and Bokmål reflects deeper cultural discussions in Norwegian society.
• It can be used attributively to describe things related to this language form.
  • She is a New Norwegian poet. (Meaning: a poet who writes in New Norwegian)
  • The New Norwegian dictionary was recently updated.

Variants and Related Words

• Nynorsk: The native Norwegian name for New Norwegian. The two terms are synonymous in English contexts.
  • "Nynorsk" is the term most commonly used within Norway for New Norwegian.
• Bokmål: The other official written standard of Norwegian, which developed from the Dano-Norwegian used in cities.
• Landsmål: The historical name for New Norwegian, coined by its creator Ivar Aasen. It means "language of the country."

Synonyms

• Nynorsk: The direct synonym.

Notes on Different Meanings

• The term New Norwegian refers specifically to the constructed written standard. It does not refer to:
  • Any modern or contemporary dialect of spoken Norwegian.
  • The Norwegian language as a whole.
  • A newly created language. Despite the word "new" in its name, it is based on older rural dialects.

Noun

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