uformell

Uformell is an adjective used in Norwegian to describe something informal, meaning not bound by formal rules, protocols, or dress codes. It can refer to language, behavior, processes, or social settings where formality is reduced. It is commonly contrasted with formell (formal) and denotes a relaxed or casual approach.

Etymology and usage notes: the word is built from the negating prefix u- attached to formell (formal). In Norwegian, uformell describes contexts, tones, or practices that do not adhere to formal standards. In neighboring Scandinavian languages, related concepts are expressed with cognate forms such as informell or oformell in Swedish, and uformel in Danish, reflecting similar distinctions between formal and informal.

Contexts and examples: uformell can describe clothing, conversation, and organizational practices as well as unwritten social norms. Examples include: Dette møtet vil være uformelt. (This meeting will be informal.) Kleskoden er uformell. (The dress code is informal.) Vi hadde en uformell diskusjon. (We had an informal discussion.) In institutions or workplaces, a uformell tone may facilitate open dialogue, but too much informality can be seen as inappropriate in highly structured settings.

See also and related terms: uformell is the Norwegian counterpart to formell, and is closely related to informell and oformell in Swedish, as well as uformel in Danish, which express similar contrasts between informal and formal in their respective languages.