ordentlig

Ordentlig is a common adjective in Danish and Norwegian meaning proper, decent, orderly, or correct according to rules or expectations. It can describe people’s behavior, the quality of work, or the general standard of something. In everyday use, ordentlig conveys reliability and seriousness—if something is ordentlig, it is considered to meet reasonable expectations and to be without apparent flaws, at least within the given context. The sense can range from modest adequacy to strong approval, depending on tone.

Etymology: The term is formed from the noun orden (order) plus the suffix -lig, originally meaning “in a way that follows order.” It is cognate across the Scandinavian languages and related to similar forms in Swedish and Icelandic.

Usage: In both Danish and Norwegian, ordentlig appears in contexts such as behaving in a proper manner, delivering solid work, or describing a well-run operation. It is less strong than words meaning outstanding or excellent, but stronger than merely adequate in many contexts. In political, administrative, or formal discourse, ordentlig can carry a sense of propriety and compliance.

Related terms: synonyms include proper, suitable, appropriate, acceptable, and for some contexts, respectable or decent. Antonyms include disorderly, improper, and unsuitable.