Samlebegreb

Samlebegreb is a Danish term used to describe a general or umbrella concept that groups together a set of related elements under one higher-level category. The word combines samle, meaning “to collect,” with begreb, meaning “concept.” It is used in linguistics, information science, library science, and taxonomy to denote a broad category that covers multiple subcategories.

In practice, a samlebegreb serves as a superordinate concept that helps organize knowledge and data. Examples include the samlebegreb dyr (animals), which can encompass subcategories such as hund (dog), kat (cat), and fugl (bird); frugt (fruit), which includes æble (apple), banan (banana), and pærer (pears); and transportmidler (means of transport), which covers bil (car), tog (train), fly (plane), and cykel (bicycle). The term is often used when discussing classification, ontologies, or subject headings in catalogs and databases.

Relation to other terms: in semantics, samlebegreb is similar to the English umbrella term or hypernym. It is closely connected to overbegreb (superordinate concept) and underbegreb (hyponym) within hierarchical classifications. Use and limitations: because samlebegreb is broad, it can become ambiguous or overly inclusive if not defined carefully, and precise subcategories may be required for clarity in data modeling or indexing.