Forsetningen

Forsetningen is a term used in Norwegian linguistics to describe a type of subordinate clause introduced by the conjunction for. It is used to express a reason or justification for the action in the main clause, and can often be translated as because or since in English. The form is common in both Bokmål and Nynorsk, though its use can feel more formal or written than everyday speech.

In function, forssetningen typically follows the main clause and contains its own finite verb. Examples include: Vi ble inne, for det regnet. Han gikk til skolen, for han hadde en prøve. These clauses provide the speaker’s motive or cause for the main statement. Forsetningen can sometimes be contrasted with other causal clauses introduced by fordi or ettersom in Norwegian, where fordi is often seen as more explicit or direct.

Punctuation and style vary. In standard written Norwegian, a comma is frequently placed before a forssetningen when it adds explanatory information after the main clause. Some writers may omit the comma in tightly linked sentences, but the general tendency is to separate the main clause from the causal for-clause for clarity.

Etymology and terminology: forsetningen derives from setning (sentence) combined with for, the conjunction meaning for or because. It is distinguished from infinitive and relative clauses by its conjunctional introduction and its role in signaling reason or justification.

See also: fordi-satser, ettersom-satser, infintivsetninger.