omsyn

Omsyn is a noun used in Danish and Norwegian to denote a humane attitude toward others, including mercy, compassion, and consideration. The term can refer both to the mental act of taking someone’s circumstances into account and to the corresponding behavior, such as showing leniency, offering support, or treating others with consideration.

Etymology and sense development are tied to the roots of the languages. The prefix om- can convey around or about, while syn (or syn) relates to sight, view, or perspective. From these elements, omsyn came to describe a way of looking at people and situations with kindness or understanding, rather than judgment or indifference.

Usage and register vary by language and context. In contemporary Norwegian, omsyn tends to appear in formal or literary contexts, with speakers often opting for closer everyday alternatives such as hensyn (consideration), medfølelse (compassion), or omtanke (thoughtfulness). In Danish, the word is less common in everyday speech and is typically found in older texts or more formal discourse, still carrying the sense of mercy or considerate regard toward others.

Translations into English most often yield mercy, compassion, consideration, or understanding, depending on the nuance. The concept is closely related to ethical and social values, and it can appear in discussions of humane treatment, social policy, or interpersonal conduct.