Alvorlig

Alvorlig is a Norwegian adjective meaning serious, grave, or severe in nature or consequence. It is used to describe health conditions (for example, alvorlig sykdom), injuries, events, decisions, or situations that are not trivial. In medical, legal, or official contexts the word signals that something requires attention or has significant consequences. In everyday speech it can emphasize the seriousness of a warning or evaluation, as in “Det var en alvorlig feil” or “Situasjonen er alvorlig.”

Etymology and related terms: Alvorlig derives from the noun alvor, which denotes seriousness or gravity. It has cognates in other Scandinavian languages, with Danish using alvorlig and Swedish using allvarlig, both carrying the same general meaning. The noun alvor itself is used to refer to seriousness or concern, and phrases such as alvor i alvoret appear in Norwegian to convey earnestness or gravity in a given matter.

Grammar and usage notes: The adjective agrees with the noun it modifies in gender and number. Common forms include alvorlig (singular) and alvorlige (plural). Examples: en alvorlig sykdom, et alvorlig problem, alvorlige konsekvenser. Predicative use follows standard Norwegian grammar: Situasjonen er alvorlig. Antonyms conveying the opposite sense include lett or mindre alvorlig, depending on context.

See also: alvor, allvar (related terms in neighboring languages). Alvorlig is a core term in discussions of health, risk, risk assessment, and ethical or legal seriousness.