ordstilling

Ordstilling is the term used in Norwegian grammar to describe how words and phrases are arranged in a sentence, with particular attention to the position of the finite verb, subject, and object. Norwegian is typically described as a V2 language in main clauses, meaning the finite verb occupies the second position in declarative sentences.

In simple declarative main clauses without fronted material, the usual order is subject–verb–object (SVO): Jeg leser en bok. If an adverbial or other element is placed at the beginning, it takes the first position and the finite verb remains the second, producing a form of inversion: I dag leser jeg en bok. In yes-no questions, inversion is full: Leser jeg en bok? In wh-questions, the wh-word is fronted and the verb follows in second position: Hva leser jeg? Hvorfor leser jeg en bok?

Subordinate clauses introduced by conjunctions such as at or om often show a more standard SVO inside the clause, with the finite verb typically following the subject: Jeg tror at han kommer. The exact order can vary with focus or emphasis, but the flagship feature of ordstilling in main clauses—verb-second position after a possible fronted element—remains a central organizing principle.

Word order also interacts with voice and style. The passive voice, topicalization, and emphasis on certain elements can shift the perceived order, while spoken Norwegian often allows greater flexibility for rhythm and focus. Overall, ordstilling provides a framework for predicting how Norwegian sentences are built and how meaning is conveyed through sentence structure.