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New Norwegian language

language
Also known as: Landsmål, Nynorsk

Quick Summary

New Norwegian, also known as Nynorsk, is one of two official written forms of the Norwegian language, the other being Bokmål. Developed by linguist Ivar Aasen in the mid-19th century, Nynorsk was based on rural Norwegian dialects and intended to revive the Old Norwegian tradition, diverging from the Danish-influenced Bokmål that had been in use since Norway's union with Denmark.12

While all Norwegians learn Nynorsk, only about 20 percent use it as their primary written language. It is characterized by its poetic quality and is used in government and education, alongside Bokmål. Both languages are mutually intelligible, and local dialects remain widely spoken throughout Norway.13

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