skriftspråklig

Skriftspråklig is an adjective used to describe matters relating to the written form of a language. In linguistics and language use, it denotes the written language as distinct from the spoken language, including the conventions of spelling, punctuation, grammar, vocabulary, and style that characterize writing.

The concept covers both the codified standard varieties and the broader written practices found in texts such as books, newspapers, official documents, and educational materials. Skriftspråklig language tends to be more formal and normative, with standardized rules that may differ from everyday speech. It can reflect historical developments in a language and often serves as the reference point for education, literacy, and public communication.

In Norwegian, skriftspråklig terms are used to discuss written Norwegian, including the standard varieties bokmål and nynorsk. It is commonly contrasted with muntlig (spoken) language and with dialectal speech. Within education, media, and government, skriftspråklig norms govern how texts are produced and understood, while speakers may still employ diverse spoken dialects in everyday conversation.

Sociolinguistically, many languages exhibit a distinction between skriftspråklig norms and spoken language, sometimes described as diglossia or register variation. The written form is often more conservative and standardized, whereas spoken language can be more dynamic and informal. Understanding skriftspråklig aspects helps explain how a language is taught, produced in public life, and perceived by its users.