gjentagelse

Gjentagelse is the act of repeating something that has already occurred or been said. In Norwegian, the term is used in a broad sense to refer to repetition across language, literature, music, and daily behavior. Repetition can be intentional or natural, and it may involve sounds, words, phrases, events, actions, or patterns.

In language and rhetoric, gjentagelse serves several functions: emphasis, cohesion, and memorability. It can appear as simple repetition or as structured devices such as anaphora (repetition at the start of successive clauses) and epistrophe (repetition at the end of successive clauses). Repetition also contributes to rhythm, framing, and stylistic effect, and it can carry emotional or persuasive weight.

In music and performance, gjentagelse describes the repeated return of a motif, theme, or section. Repetition provides unity and recognizability, supports form, and can create anticipation or contrast when varied. Common manifestations include refrains, choruses, and ostinati.

In learning and behavior, repetition aids memory, skill development, and habit formation. The effectiveness of gjentagelse depends on timing and variation; too much repetition may lead to fatigue or reduced attention, while well-timed repetition with variation can strengthen retention.