Problem kring ordutvalet i Norsk Ordbok

Abstract

Norsk Ordbok (The Norwegian Dictionary) is a multi-volume dictionary of the Norwegian dialects and the Nynorsk written language. Three volumes have appeared until now, reaching into the letter g. In the paper, problems conceming lemma selection are discussed. Three main types of selection criteria are identified, namely structural, pragmatic and normative criteria. The main structural criterion is morphological status (simple words vs. derivates and compounds). The main pragmatic criteria are frequency, area of usage and age. The main normative criterion in this context derives from the purist tradition of Nynorsk, where words of Danish and (Low) German origin have been regarded as problematic. The different types of problematic words are discussed in turn, and some more specific selection criteria are tentatively suggested.