Avsnittet

Avsnittet is the definite singular form of the noun avsnitt, used in Swedish and Norwegian to refer to a distinct part of something: an episode of a television, radio, or podcast program, or a section of a text such as an article, report, or book. In media contexts, avsnittet denotes a single installment in an ongoing series, for example a TV show’s episode, while in written works it can denote a subdivision within a larger text. For example, a newspaper article might be divided into several avsnitt, and a book or report into different avsnitt as topics are addressed.

Etymology and meaning. The word derives from av- (a prefix indicating separation or removal) and snitt (cut, cross-section). The combination conveys the idea of a part that has been cut away from the whole, i.e., a discrete segment or installment.

Usage. In everyday Swedish and Norwegian usage, avsnittet often refers to a specific part of a program or a particular portion of a text. In television or podcast contexts, one might speak of ett nytt avsnitt or avsnittet i serien. In literary or academic writing, avsnitt can denote a section within an article or report, distinct from a kapitel (chapter).

Relation to other languages. The term is cognate with Danish afsnit, and Norwegian avsnitt, reflecting common Scandinavian roots. Danish tends to use afsnit for similar meanings, while Swedish and Norwegian retain avsnitt as the generalized term for sections or episodes.

See also. Avsnitt as a linguistic concept is related to terms for literary structure (kapitel for chapter) and media terminology (episod, episode) in other languages.