Icelandic might seem like a niche language to learn, especially within the realms of science and research. However, scientists and academics might find themselves delving deep into texts, research papers, or collaboration opportunities with Icelandic institutions. Understanding specific Icelandic vocabulary can be a bridge to new knowledge and connections.
Vísindi
Vísindi translates to “science.” It encompasses a broad range of systematic studies of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world.
Mig langar að læra meira um vísindi í geimnum. (I want to learn more about space science.)
Rannsókn
Rannsókn means “research.” It’s the process used to collect information and data to help scientists and scholars draw conclusions about their studies and experiments.
Rannsóknin stóð yfir í tvö ár. (The research lasted for two years.)
Tilraun
A tilraun is an “experiment.” It’s a procedure carried out to support, refute, or validate a hypothesis in the scientific world.
Tilraunin var gerð til að kanna áhrif hitastigs á efnahvörf. (The experiment was conducted to explore the effects of temperature on chemical reactions.)
Gagn
Gagn means “data.” It’s facts and statistics collected for analysis and used to reason or make decisions within scientific research.
Við söfnuðum miklu magni af gagni fyrir rannsóknina. (We gathered a large amount of data for the research.)
Kenning
Kenning refers to a “theory” in science. It’s a principle or idea that intends to explain phenomena and is supported by a significant accumulation of evidence.
Relativitetskenning Einsteins breytti sýn okkar á alheiminn. (Einstein’s theory of relativity changed our view of the universe.)
Rannsóknarstofa
Rannsóknarstofa means “laboratory,” where the practical aspects of scientific investigation and experiments take place.
Nýja rannsóknarstofan er vel búin tækjum. (The new laboratory is well-equipped with instruments.)
Fræðimaður
A fræðimaður is a “scholar” or an academic, typically someone who has expert knowledge of a particular area of study.
Fræðimaðurinn gaf út bók um samskipti dýra. (The scholar published a book on animal communication.)
Birting
Birting means “publication” or the act of making content available to the public, often applying to scientific papers and research findings.
Birting nýju rannsóknargreinarinnar er búið að staðfesta. (The publication of the new research paper has been confirmed.)
Þróun
Meaning “development” or “evolution,” Þróun indicates progression, growth, or change within a scientific context or organism over time.
Þróun mannkyns er áhugavert viðfangsefni. (The evolution of humankind is an interesting subject.)
Uppgötvanir
Uppgötvanir are “discoveries,” findings that were unknown or unseen before, which often result from diligent research and exploration.
Nýlegar uppgötvanir geta breytt skilningi okkar á veirum. (Recent discoveries can change our understanding of viruses.)
When scientists and researchers venture into the Icelandic language, they open doors to a unique cultural perspective in science and research. Knowing these terms not only facilitates understanding of written material; it can also foster an appreciation for the way Icelandic speakers contribute to and conceptualize science.
