Source: Hannah Kvamsdal
If you have been in Norway for some time, you might already be aware that we have two different written languages. Nynorsk and Bokmål. Make no mistake – there is a reason why is is called a written language, as they are considered the same spoken language. Still, if you are only familiar with one of them, you might be confused when you encounter the other.
Bokmål is the more commonly used form, with around 85-90% of the population using it as their primary written language. It is predominant in urban areas and most of the eastern part of Norway. Nynorsk is mainly in rural areas on the west coast of Norway and in the central and northern regions.
Public institutions, media, and schools are required to ensure that both Nynorsk and Bokmål are represented, reflecting their status as co-official languages of Norway.
The difference between Nynorsk and Bokmål lies primarily in their origins, their usage, and certain aspects of grammar and vocabulary.
Origins and Development
Bokmål evolved from Dano-Norwegian, which was the result of 400 years of Danish rule over Norway (1380-1814). Bokmål is heavily influenced by Danish due to this historical context and is considered a Norwegianized version of written Danish. It was originally called Riksmål.
Nynorsk, meaning "New Norwegian," was developed in the 19th century by Ivar Aasen. Aasen traveled across Norway, studying the various Norwegian dialects, particularly those that were least influenced by Danish. Nynorsk was created as a written form based on these dialects, aiming to reflect a more authentic Norwegian linguistic tradition.
Grammar and Vocabulary
The grammar and vocabulary of Nynorsk and Bokmål differ in several ways, reflecting their distinct origins. Nynorsk tends to preserve more of the features found in Norwegian dialects, such as certain verb forms and uses of the definite article. Bokmål, being closer to Danish, often has simpler forms that are easier for speakers of other Scandinavian languages to understand.
Nynorsk vocabulary aims to avoid loanwords from Danish and other languages, preferring native Norwegian words or creating new ones from Norwegian roots. Bokmål, in contrast, includes many loanwords from Danish and retains spellings and expressions closer to Danish.
Despite their differences, Nynorsk and Bokmål are mutually intelligible, and Norwegians are taught to understand both from an early age through the school system. The choice between Nynorsk and Bokmål is often a matter of personal or regional preference, and both forms are considered equal in status and validity by the Norwegian government.
So, which one should you choose?
If you are started your language learning journey, most likely you have started to learn Bokmål. This is also the written language I most commonly refer to on this platform too, and is generally more accessible in learning materials. However, if you are living in a municipally that uses Nynorsk as their main written language, you might consider giving it a try?
Best,
Hannah, OLS Community Manager - Norwegian