målform

Målform is the written form of the Norwegian language used in formal written communication. In Norway there are two official målformer: Bokmål and Nynorsk. Bokmål represents the written language most closely aligned with the historical Danish-Norwegian tradition and is by far the most widely used form in national media, government, and education. Nynorsk was created in the 19th century by Ivar Aasen and is based on Norwegian dialects; it retains a strong presence in many rural and regional communities, especially in western parts of the country.

In practice, public bodies and publishers can designate a primary målform for their materials, while many also provide parallel texts or translations in the other form. Newspapers, websites, and official documents often offer switches between Bokmål and Nynorsk to accommodate readers’ preferences or regional traditions. The choice of målform can reflect local culture, historical policy, and individual or institutional identity.

Education and language policy in Norway support exposure to and use of both forms. Schools generally teach and assess written Norwegian in ways that acknowledge Bokmål and Nynorsk, and municipalities may emphasize one form while ensuring access to the other. The Norwegian Language Council (Språkrådet) advises on proper usage, standards, and safeguards the coexistence of Bokmål and Nynorsk as complementary written norms.

Overall, målform denotes the official written standard used in formal Norwegian texts and is central to contemporary language policy, regional identity, and communication in public life. See also Bokmål, Nynorsk, Språkrådet.