ordna

Ordna is a Norwegian verb meaning to arrange, organize, set in order, or fix. In everyday language it is an informal or dialectal variant of ordne; the standard form in Bokmål and Nynorsk is typically ordne, while ordna is common in speech, informal writing, and regional dialects. The meaning covers organizing physical objects, planning tasks, or bringing a situation into order. Phrasal uses include ordne opp i noe (to sort out something), ordne opp (to fix up), and å ordne seg (to get one’s affairs in order or to settle in life). The imperative is usually ordne, though ordna appears in dialectal speech.

Etymology: ordna is a Nordic cognate of Danish ordne and Swedish ordna, all deriving from a common Germanic root related to order. The term is part of a broader family of verbs expressing the idea of arranging or regulating.

Usage and register: ordna is strongest in informal registers and regional speech, while ordne is preferred in formal writing and standard language. It is used across various contexts, including everyday chores, administrative tasks, and personal organization. Common phrases include ordna opp i økonomien (get finances in order) and ordne det før helga (settle that before the weekend). As with many Nordic verbs, speakers may choose between ordna and ordne based on formality, audience, and regional tradition.