stafsetning

Stafsetning is a Norwegian term for the system of spelling, capitalization, and punctuation that guides the written form of a language. In Norwegian, especially bokmål and nynorsk, stafsetning encompasses orthography—how words are spelled and formed; capitalization rules; hyphenation and word division; as well as the use and rules for punctuation marks such as period, comma, colon, question mark and quotation marks. It also covers typographic conventions such as spacing around punctuation and the treatment of abbreviations and numbers.

Stafsetning is standardised by language authorities and style guides. In Norway, the official norms are described in guidelines issued for bokmål and nynorsk by the Language Council (Språkrådet) and used by schools, media, and publishers. Because Norwegian has two written standards, stafsetning rules can differ between bokmål and nynorsk, though both aim for readability and consistency.

Historically, stafsetning has evolved with language planning and contact with Danish, Swedish, and English, as well as reforms aimed at simplifying spellings, clarifying punctuation, and aligning with spoken forms. Modern stafsetning emphasizes readability, clarity, economy, and adaptability to new words, including loanwords, technical terms, and digital media.

Stafsetning is a key aspect of written communication, influencing how readers interpret texts and how authors plan composition, editing, and publishing.