Understanding Bokmål and Nynorsk
What is Bokmål?
Bokmål, meaning “book language,” is the most widely used written standard of Norwegian. It has its roots in Danish, reflecting Norway’s historical ties with Denmark. Today, Bokmål is used by approximately 85-90% of Norwegians, particularly in urban areas, the media, education, and government. Most books, newspapers, and official documents are written in Bokmål.
What is Nynorsk?
Nynorsk, or “new Norwegian,” was developed in the 19th century to reflect the rural dialects of Norway, as a contrast to the Danish-influenced Bokmål. About 10-15% of the population uses Nynorsk, primarily in western Norway and some central regions. Nynorsk is taught in schools and used in local government and media in these areas, but is much less common at the national level.
Why Does Norway Have Two Written Standards?
The existence of Bokmål and Nynorsk is rooted in Norway’s history. After centuries of Danish rule, nationalists sought to create a written language that reflected Norwegian speech. Bokmål evolved from Danish, while Nynorsk was constructed from various Norwegian dialects. Both standards are legally equal, and all Norwegians learn to read and write both in school, though most will have a preference depending on their region and background.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Which to Learn First
1. Prevalence and Practicality
If your goal is to communicate with as many Norwegians as possible, Bokmål is the clear choice. It dominates in business, education, media, and most parts of the country. Learning Bokmål first will give you access to the widest range of resources, from textbooks and online courses to language apps like Talkpal.
2. Regional Relevance
If you plan to live, work, or study in western Norway, or are particularly interested in Norwegian dialects and rural culture, Nynorsk might be more relevant. Many local governments and schools in these areas use Nynorsk as their primary written standard.
3. Learning Materials and Resources
Bokmål has a much broader range of learning materials, including grammar books, dictionaries, novels, and online tools. Platforms like Talkpal primarily focus on Bokmål due to its widespread use. While resources for Nynorsk are growing, they remain more limited, which can make self-study more challenging.
4. Academic or Cultural Interests
If you have a specific academic or cultural interest in Norwegian literature, folklore, or linguistics, learning both standards may be beneficial. Nynorsk has a rich literary tradition and is closely linked to Norwegian identity and dialect diversity.
Should You Learn Both Bokmål and Nynorsk?
Most Norwegians can read both Bokmål and Nynorsk, but usually write only one fluently. For language learners, it’s advisable to focus on one standard initially—typically Bokmål—before exploring the other. Once you have a strong foundation, learning to read and understand Nynorsk can expand your comprehension of Norwegian culture and literature, and help you navigate life in Nynorsk-speaking regions.
Tips for Learning Norwegian Effectively
- Start with Bokmål for the widest access to learning materials and everyday communication.
- Use interactive tools like Talkpal to practice pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary.
- Expose yourself to both standards by reading newspapers, watching TV, and listening to Norwegian radio from different regions.
- Consider learning Nynorsk later if you plan to live in western Norway or have a special interest in dialects.
- Join online forums or social media groups dedicated to Norwegian learners to practice and ask questions.
Conclusion: Bokmål or Nynorsk First?
For most learners, starting with Bokmål makes the most sense due to its prevalence and the abundance of resources. Nynorsk is valuable for those with specific regional or cultural interests, but is best approached after establishing a strong base in Bokmål. Whatever your choice, consistent practice and exposure are key. With tools like Talkpal and a clear learning plan, you’ll be well on your way to mastering Norwegian, one standard at a time.
