Valtvalgt

Valtvalgt is a non-standard neologism found in some Norwegian political commentary. It is not a widely used term in official language and is not listed in major Norwegian dictionaries. In practice, it is employed to signal that a person has attained a position through an electoral process rather than by appointment.

Etymology and form of the word are informal. The term appears to be a coinage built from the word valgt, meaning elected, used in a way that emphasizes the act of being chosen by voters. Because it is not part of formal terminology, its exact interpretation can vary depending on the author or context. The word is mainly encountered in opinion pieces, debates, and social media, where writers may seek to stress a democratic mandate.

Usage and nuance. Valgtvalgt is typically used to contrast with appointed positions and to underline the legitimacy that comes from an election. Because it is not standardized, its reception can differ among readers: some may view it as a rhetorical flourish, while others may interpret it as a deliberate emphasis of electoral mandate. In everyday formal discourse, Norwegian speakers normally use simply valgt to denote someone who has been elected, or utnevnt for someone appointed.

See also. See elected official, appointed official, democracy, and political terminology.