Motstrid

Motstrid is a noun used in Norwegian Bokmål and Danish to denote a conflict, contradiction, or discrepancy between statements, data, or positions. It is commonly found in academic writing, journalism, and policy analysis to flag inconsistencies that require scrutiny or reconciliation.

Etymology and nuance: the word combines mot, meaning against, with strid, meaning struggle or conflict, signaling a clash between opposing elements. The term can function as an adjective in the form motstridende (and in Danish related variants) to describe things that are in conflict. In practice, motstrid concerns can arise when different sources, hypotheses, or observations point to incompatible conclusions.

Usage and examples: in research and reporting, writers may note a motstrid between experimental results and theoretical predictions, or between two witnesses’ accounts. Examples include phrases such as det foreligger motstridende opplysninger, or there is a motstrid between data sets. The concept is also used to discuss policy dilemmas where competing interests produce conflicting recommendations. In many contexts, identifying motstrid signals the need for further data collection, clarification of definitions, or methodological revision.

Related terms and translation: motstrid is closely associated with inkonsekvens (inconsistency) and uoverensstemmelse (discrepancy). It is often translated into English as contradiction or conflict, depending on context. The term helps distinguish genuine disagreement or clash of evidence from mere differences of interpretation or opinion.

Overall, motstrid captures the idea of competing elements that are not easily reconciled, highlighting areas where further analysis is needed to resolve or understand the conflict.