sannfalsk

Sannfalsk is a Norwegian term formed from sann (“true”) and falsk (“false”). It is used to describe a statement, argument, or claim that blends elements of truth with misleading framing, or that is presented in a way that makes it difficult to classify as wholly true or wholly false. The term appears in discussions of misinformation, media literacy, and political rhetoric to characterize how some assertions mix accurate details with deceptive context.

Etymology and usage: Sannfalsk is a contemporary compound adjective in Norwegian discourse. Its precise connotations depend on context, and it is often employed critically to signal that a claim relies on ambiguity, selective presentation, or framing rather than on a straightforward true-or-false assertion.

Meanings and examples: In practice, a sannfalsk claim may rest on a true fact but frame it so that the overall impression is misleading. It can also combine verified information with false premises, or selectively present evidence to support a persuasive but incomplete or distorted conclusion.

Relation to related concepts: Sannfalsk is closely connected to ideas such as partial truth, truthiness, deception, and misinformation. It differs from outright falseness by emphasizing the way truth and falsity are blended to shape perception rather than to state an unambiguous falsehood.

See also: misinformation, disinformation, propaganda, media literacy, partial truth, truthiness.