Halvsidesannonsen

Halvsidesannonsen, literally the half-page advertisement, is a term used in Norwegian media to describe an advertisement that fills about half of a newspaper or magazine page. The format is chosen for visual impact and per-page cost efficiency, combining a dominant headline, a large image or graphic, and brief, persuasive copy. Typical uses include consumer products, real estate, automobile promotions, event announcements, and, in some local papers, personal notices such as weddings or obituaries.

Historically, halvsidesannonser appeared with the rise of illustrated press in the early 20th century and remained common through the mid- to late century, when print advertising dominated local and regional markets. The layout is characterized by a strong focal point, the strategic use of white space, and a balance between image and text that fits the half-page area. Prices varied by publication and by whether the advertiser bought color or black-and-white space; some papers offered standardized half-page formats to simplify pricing.

In the digital age, half-page print advertising has declined as advertisers moved to online display, classifieds, and sponsored content. Nonetheless, some newspapers and magazines maintain halvsidesannonser as a legacy or regional option, sometimes used for special editions or high-impact campaigns.

Etymology: halvside means 'half page' and annonse means 'advertisement' in Norwegian; cognate terms appear in other Scandinavian languages. See also: display advertising, classifieds, print advertising.