institutionslika
Institutionslika is a term used in Swedish-language discourse to describe something that possesses the characteristics of an institution, without necessarily being one. It denotes a structure or practice that exhibits formalized rules, stable procedures, recognized authority, and legitimacy in the eyes of participants, even when created outside traditional state or corporate institutions.
Etymology: the word combines the root institution with the suffix -lika, meaning “like” or “similar,” signaling
Usage: In sociology, political science and organizational studies, the term helps discuss patterns that resemble institutions—such
Examples: Governance boards set up by private actors that adopt formal decision-making procedures; non-governmental networks that
Relationship to informality: Institutionslika often sits between formal institutions and informal norms, highlighting how legitimacy and
Limitations: The label can be ambiguous and context-dependent; there is a risk of conflating procedural mimicry
See also: informal institutions, formal institutions, hybrid organizations, governance.