The Swedish language is set to embrace new terms with the release of the 2024 Nyordslista, which highlights the latest neologisms reflecting society's current concerns, moods, and cultural shifts. Compiled by Språkrådet and Språktidningen, this list serves as both a mirror and mold for the language, showcasing how words evolve and adapt to encapsulate the zeitgeist.
Among the 32 new entries, terms like 'aktivklubb', 'ankkurva', and 'barntorped' stand out, each encapsulating specific societal phenomena. 'Aktivklubb' refers to clubs where right-wing extremists train together, reflecting the increasing visibility of extremist movements. Meanwhile, 'ankkurva' describes graphs showing the relationship between solar energy supply and demand, appearing increasingly relevant as renewable energy becomes more prominent.
One poignant addition, 'barntorped', identifies children committing serious crimes on behalf of criminal gangs—an echo of rising concerns over youth involvement in organized crime. The term's entry signifies not merely the act itself but also the urgent societal dialogue surrounding juvenile delinquency and gang recruitment.
On the lighter side of the spectrum is 'bratsommar', evoking images of carefree summers filled with leisurely pleasures—a stark counterpoint to the frantic pace of daily life. This term invites contemplation about how leisure culture reacts to the pressures and anxieties of contemporary living.
Another interesting entry is 'coolcation', describing holidays taken to cooler climates, which have become popular as people seek respite from the heat of southern summers. This reflects broader trends where personal comfort increasingly aligns with climatic influences.
Linnea Hanell, editor at Språkrådet, notes, "En terian är till exempel någon som klär ut sig till och delvis känner sig som ett djur, vilket erbjuder en tillvaro som nog gör världen såväl mer intressant som lättare att stå ut med." The term 'terian' speaks to individuals who dress as animals and embody the animalistic spirit, providing sanctuary from the stresses of human existence. It symbolizes how society sometimes turns inward, seeking solace and identity away from reality.
Anders Svensson, from Språktidningen, highlights, "Att det fortsätter att bildas nya ord inom dessa fält visar att det är ämnen som vi fortsätter att diskutera." This observation hints at persistent themes like crime, social dynamics, and the influence of popular culture and media, which shape how language emerges and transforms.
Interestingly, many of the new words are influenced by English, evidenced by terms like 'looksmaxing'—an online trend focused on optimizing one's appearance—or 'slop', referring to poor-quality AI-generated content. 'Umarell', borrowed from the northern Italian emilian dialect, provides a picturesque image of elderly men watching construction projects, capturing both cultural quirks and linguistic cross-pollination.
The introduction of 'drakdrönare' (dragon drone), signifying here military technology, indicates how global events, such as the conflict involving Ukraine, leave imprints on language. This term signals both the harsh realities of modern warfare and the creative innovation derived from it.
Overall, the 2024 Nyordslista not only catalogues words but acts as documentation of societal sentiments, personal experiences, and collective narratives. It highlights how language is not static; it thrives, morphs, and occasionally becomes whimsical as society grapples with its reality. Each neologism serves as commentary on cultural phenomena, interactions, and concerns.
By acknowledging and studying these trends, Sweden opens itself up to discussions and reflections on identity, meaning, and connection—illustrated through the lens of its language.
