uformel

Uformel is a Danish adjective meaning informal or casual, describing things that do not adhere to formal standards. It is commonly used to refer to dress codes, language, or atmospheres, such as an informal meeting, an informal tone, or informal attire.

Etymology and usage

The term is formed with the negating prefix u- attached to formel, which means formal. Formell derives from historical forms in Latin and French, and uformel thus expresses negation of formality. In everyday Danish, uformel is used for settings where strict etiquette or ceremonial rules are relaxed, often implying friendliness, openness, and ease.

Contexts and examples

- Language: uformel sprogbrug describes speech that is relaxed and not bound by formal rules.

- Dress code: uformel påklædning refers to casual or everyday clothing suitable for non-official occasions.

- Social and professional tone: en uformel tone in a meeting indicates a casual, approachable communication style.

- Event and environment: a uformel atmosfære suggests a comfortable, unconstrained environment.

Related terms and variations

The adverbial form is uformelt, used to describe actions or manners (“han taler uformelt”). In Norwegian, the corresponding forms are often uformell (adj) and uformelt (adv), with similar meaning. The term contrasts with formel, formelt, or formell, which denote formality and stricter norms.

See also

Formel, informal language, dress code, language register, sociolinguistic style.