ístefnu
Ístefnu is a term used in Icelandic linguistics. It refers to the tendency or practice of adopting new words or linguistic structures directly from other languages, particularly English, without significant modification. This process is a natural part of language evolution, driven by globalization, technological advancements, and cultural exchange. Icelandic, like many languages, experiences a constant influx of foreign vocabulary, and ístefnu describes how these elements are integrated into the language.
The concept of ístefnu is often discussed in contexts of language preservation and purism. While some argue