fordæmi

Fordæmi is an Icelandic noun that denotes an instance or specimen that serves as an illustration, model, or rule of reference. The core sense is that of an example that can be used to compare, imitate, or justify something. In everyday language, fordæmi can refer to a typical case or representative instance.

In specialized contexts, the term takes on a more formal meaning as a precedent or guiding example. In legal and administrative discourse it can designate a precedent that informs decisions. In philosophy, rhetoric, and pedagogy, fordæmi is used to discuss exemplarity—how particular cases illustrate general principles or norms and how such exemplars influence reasoning and argumentation.

Etymology: the word derives from for- (before, in front of) together with dæmi (example), indicating a model presented for imitation or guidance. The term has historical usage in Old Norse and remains common in modern Icelandic.

See also: dæmi, which means "example"; fordæmi is related as the concept of a referential instance or precedent.