Inspirerende

Inspirerende is an adjective used in Danish and Norwegian to describe something that inspires or provides inspiration. It can refer to people, works of art, events, speeches, places, or experiences that stimulate creativity, motivation, or admiration. The term carries a positive connotation and is common in reviews, journalism, and everyday speech.

Etymology and form: Inspirerende derives from the verb inspirere (to inspire), which itself comes from the Latin inspirare, meaning to breathe into. The suffix -ende forms the present participle, yielding the meaning “inspiring.” In Danish and Norwegian, the word normally precedes the noun it describes and agrees in number with that noun.

Usage and nuances: The word is somewhat broader than “motiverende” (motivating); inspirerende emphasizes a sense of creation or moral uplift as well as emotional impact. It is often used for people who motivate others, as well as for works, events, or experiences that leave a lasting impression.

Examples:

- et inspirerende foredrag

- en inspirerende historie

- foredraget var inspirerende

Cross-linguistic note: In Swedish, the cognate is inspirerande, with a slightly different spelling but a similar meaning. The concept remains consistent across the Scandinavian languages, reflecting a shared linguistic heritage.

See also: inspirere, motivere, motiverende.