identiske

Identiske is an adjective used in Norwegian and Danish to express that two or more things are exactly the same in essential respects. The term is applied to describe nouns that are indistinguishable in key attributes, such as copies, versions, or pairings that match closely. In everyday language it is commonly seen in phrases like identiske tvillinger (identical twins) or identiske kopier (identical copies).

Etymology and form: Identiske derives from Latin identicus, through French identique, into Scandinavian languages. The word retains its core meaning of exact sameness. In grammar, the singular form is identisk, while identiske is the plural form, used before plural nouns.

Usage and examples: Common constructions include identiske kopier, identiske produkter, or identiske tvillinger. The form identiske is also used when describing multiple items that are identical to each other, such as two identiske lånekort or two identiske bilder. The term can appear in both descriptive and technical contexts, including science, law, and media, whenever exact sameness is asserted.

Relation to related terms: Identiske is closely related to identisk in its root meaning and contrasts with words that signal mere similarity (lik) or resemblance, where exact equality is not claimed. In English, the closest equivalent is identical.

Notes: While identical implies complete sameness, its use can be contextual, with speakers sometimes employing identiske to signal very strong resemblance rather than absolute identity depending on the situation.