Underrubrik

Underrubrik is a secondary heading used in Swedish writing to accompany the main title. It sits under the huvudrubrik and provides a concise summary, context, or an indication of the article’s angle. The underrubrik helps structure the text, aids reader comprehension, and supports skimming by signaling what the following content will cover.

In practice, the underrubrik is placed directly beneath the huvudrubrik. It is typically formatted to appear smaller or lighter than the main title, while still being visually distinct from the body text. The length varies, from a short phrase to a full sentence, and it may function as a lead-in or teaser that elaborates on the topic without repeating the main headline.

Usage and style vary by medium. In newspapers, magazines, and books, underrubriker clarify the scope or highlight key aspects of the article. In digital content, they often serve both readability and accessibility purposes, helping screen readers navigate the structure and aiding search engines in understanding page content. Writers use underrubriker to break up long passages, create a logical hierarchy, and improve the reader’s overall experience without altering the main rhetorical message.

Example: Huvudrubrik: Sverige inför klimatmål. Underrubrik: Regeringen presenterar nya planer för att minska utsläpp och främja hållbar tillväxt. Etymology: underrubrik combines under and rubrik, indicating a heading placed under the main title.