Lýsingarspurning

Lýsingarspurning is an Icelandic term that translates to "descriptive question" in English. It refers to a type of question that aims to elicit detailed information about a particular subject, person, event, or concept. Unlike factual questions which seek a single, definitive answer, descriptive questions encourage the respondent to provide a more elaborate and nuanced response.

These questions often begin with interrogative words such as "hvernig" (how), "hvað" (what, in a descriptive sense), "hver" (who, in a descriptive sense), or phrases that prompt for explanation. For example, a lýsingarspurning might be "Hvernig lýsirðu þínu besta minni?" (How would you describe your best memory?) or "Hvað geturðu sagt mér um söguna á bak við þetta málverk?" (What can you tell me about the history behind this painting?).

The purpose of a lýsingarspurning is to gain a deeper understanding by exploring characteristics, qualities, circumstances, or processes. They are commonly used in interviews, surveys, educational settings, and in everyday conversation to encourage conversation and gather rich qualitative data. The answer to a lýsingarspurning is typically subjective and open-ended, allowing for a wide range of responses.