ikkesvar

Ikke svar is a term used in online discourse to describe a reply that deliberately avoids providing substantive information in response to a question. It is encountered in social media, forums, and organizational communications to flag evasive responses that acknowledge the question while withholding a direct answer. The term is a compound often traced to Scandinavian language roots, combining the words for not (ikke) and answer (svar). The exact origin is uncertain; it appears in online glossaries and discussions as a label for responses that deflect, stall, or defer without committing to specifics.

In practice, an ikkesvar takes many forms, including generic assurances such as “we will look into it,” “that is under review,” or “no comment,” when the issuer does not disclose new information or a clear position. Critics argue that such replies can frustrate stakeholders and obscure accountability, while supporters may view them as prudent in situations of uncertainty or ongoing consultation.

Scholarly and media discussions often pair ikkesvar with related concepts such as weasel words, non-answers, and evasive bureaucratic language. It serves as a linguistic marker used to analyze how language can signal engagement without providing substantive content. The term is most commonly discussed in the contexts of political communication, corporate communication, and media literacy.

See also: non-answer, weasel word, evasive maneuver, bureaucratic language, media literacy.