råfrågan

Råfrågan is a term used in Norwegian and Swedish media and political discourse to describe a blunt, direct question posed during interviews, parliamentary sessions, or public debates. The word combines rå, meaning raw or blunt, with frågan or fråga, meaning the question. The definite form råfrågan is used when referring to a specific instance of such a question.

Usage and meaning

A råfrågan aims to elicit precise information or a clear commitment from the respondent, often pressing for details such as numbers, deadlines, or official positions. It is commonly employed in investigative journalism and in question‑and‑answer moments in legislative settings. The label råfrågan is typically used by commentators to contrast with softer, hedged, or more evasive questions.

Etymology and regional variation

Råfrågan derives from rå (raw/blunt) and fråga/frågan (the question). Variants and spelling may differ between Norwegian and Swedish contexts, and regional usage can influence how often the term appears in media commentary. While the concept is understood in both languages, it is more of a rhetorical label than a formal linguistic category.

Reception and critique

Supporters view råfrågor as tools for accountability, forcing politicians or officials to provide concrete information. Critics contend that such questions can be aggressive, reduce nuance, or corner respondents without allowing for considered responses.

See also

fråga, spørsmål, interview, political journalism, rhetorical question.