mælanlega

mælanlega is an Icelandic adverb meaning to a measurable extent or to a degree that can be quantified. In English it is closest to “measurably” or “quantifiably.” The word derives from the adjective mælanlegur (measurable) and is used to indicate the degree to which a quality can be assessed with evidence or calculation. It appears primarily in formal, technical, or scientific writing, and is less common in everyday speech.

Grammatical notes: mælanlega typically modifies adjectives and adverbs, signalling that the degree described is susceptible to measurement or quantification. It does not modify nouns directly, but can be used in sentences where the adjective it accompanies expresses a degree or quality.

Usage examples:

- Verkið var mælanlega erfitt. (The task was measurably/demonstrably difficult.)

- Tilraunin var mælanlega árangursríkari en fyrri tilraunir. (The experiment was measurably more successful than earlier attempts.)

- Gæðin eru mælanlega hærri nú en fyrir ári. (The quality is measurably higher now than a year ago.)

See also: mælanlegur, mæling, mælingar, tölu- og vísindaleg orðfærsla. Mælanlega is typical of precise, data-oriented prose and contrasts with more subjective terms such as “nokkuð” or “mjög,” which convey impression rather than quantifiable extent.