orsök

Orsök is a Swedish noun that denotes a cause or reason for something, especially a factor that contributes to a particular outcome. In everyday language the more common form is orsak, but orsök can be found in older texts, technical writing, and some dialects as a variant that emphasizes a specific etiologic factor rather than a general explanation.

Usage and nuance

Orsök is typically used in analytical, medical, or scientific contexts to refer to a concrete causal factor. In many genres, however, orsak is preferred for general purposes, and the plural form orsaker is used to mean “causes.” When orsök appears, it often appears with phrases such as a possible orsök to distinguish a singular etiologic factor from a broader causal explanation. Some writers reserve orsök for precise, identifiable causes rather than broader motives or explanations.

Etymology and status

Orsök is linked to the same semantic field as orsak (cause, reason). It is generally regarded as a historical or specialized variant rather than part of standard contemporary usage. Modern Swedish dictionaries typically list orsak as the primary term, with orsök noted as a less common or archaic form.

See also

Orsak, orsaker, etiologi, etiologicfaktorer, orsak och verkan (causality).