Basic Norwegian Business Vocabulary – Learn Norwegian A2-B1
In today’s globalized world, knowing a second or third language can greatly benefit one’s business endeavors. As the gateway to Scandinavia, Norway is rich in natural beauty and a thriving hub for energy, maritime, and technology industries. So, whether you’re seeking business opportunities in Norway or just want to expand your linguistic horizons, learning Norwegian business vocabulary is a valuable asset.
Here’s a basic guide to essential Norwegian business terms to get you started:
- a business – en forretning
- a businessman/a business woman – en forretningsmann/ei forretningskvinne
- a small business – en liten bedrift
- a contract – en kontrakt
- To sign a contract. – Å signere en kontrakt.
- a meeting – et møte
- a business meeting – et forretningsmøte
- To schedule a meeting. – Å planlegge et møte.
- a profit – en fortjeneste
- a net profit – en nettofortjeneste
- a gross profit – en bruttofortjeneste
- an expense – en utgift
- operating expenses – driftsutgifter
- an employee – en ansatt
- an employer – en arbeidsgiver
- an office – et kontor
- Office supplies – Kontorrekvisita
- a client/a customer – en kunde
- an invoice – en faktura
- To send an invoice – Å sende en faktura
- a debt – ei gjeld
- To be in debt – Å være i gjeld
- a partnership – et samarbeid
- Business partner – Forretningspartner
- a salary – en lønn
- Monthly salary – Månedslønn
- a sale – et salg
- Sales department – Salgsavdeling
- Sales figures – Salgstall
- a market – et marked
- Target market – Målmarked
- a product – et produkt
- Product launch – Produktlansering
- a trade – en handel
- international trade – internasjonal handel
- a stock – ei aksje
- a stock market – et aksjemarked
- an investment – en investering
- a budget – et budsjett
- a negotiation – en forhandling
These terms represent just the tip of the iceberg regarding Norwegian business vocabulary. As you delve deeper into the language, you’ll encounter many more specialized words and phrases that cater to specific industries and situations.
One of the best ways to learn and remember these terms is to immerse yourself in Norwegian business environments – read Norwegian business news, watch webinars or tutorials in Norwegian, or engage in conversations with native speakers in a business setting!
FAQ: Basic Norwegian Business Vocabulary
Q1: Is it essential to learn Norwegian for doing business in Norway?
A1: While many Norwegians speak fluent English, understanding basic Norwegian business vocabulary can help establish rapport and demonstrate respect for local customs. It can also give you a competitive edge in business negotiations or when building partnerships.
Q2: Are there any cultural nuances in the Norwegian business world I should be aware of?
A2: Yes, the Norwegian business environment values punctuality, honesty, and directness. It’s also worth noting that Norwegians often value work-life balance, so don’t be surprised if they’re keen to finish meetings promptly or avoid scheduling meetings late in the day.
Q3: Which of these terms is most commonly used in day-to-day business dealings?
A3: Terms like “møte” (meeting), “kunde” (client/customer), “faktura” (invoice), and “lønn” (salary) are among the most commonly used in regular business interactions.
Q4: I’ve seen words like “selskap” related to business. What does it mean?
A4: “Selskap” can mean “company” in a business context. For example, “aksjeselskap” (AS) is the Norwegian term for a limited company, similar to Ltd. in English.
Q5: How do Norwegians address each other in a professional setting?
A5: Norwegians tend to be less formal in many professional settings than in some other cultures. It’s common to address colleagues and even superiors by their first names. However, initial introductions may be more formal, and using “Herr” (Mr.) or “Fru” (Mrs./Ms.) can be appropriate.
Q6: Are there any business customs related to gift-giving in Norway?
A6: While gift-giving isn’t as deeply rooted in Norwegian business culture as in some other countries, it’s a kind gesture, especially when marking an important deal or partnership. When choosing a gift, opt for quality over extravagance and avoid overly personal items.
Q7: How long is the typical workweek in Norway?
A7: The typical workweek in Norway is around 37.5 hours, often from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, including a half-hour lunch break. However, hours can vary based on the industry and specific company policies.
Q8: How important is punctuality in the Norwegian business world?
A8: Punctuality is highly valued in Norway. Being late is considered disrespectful, so always strive to be on time or even a bit early for business meetings or engagements.
Q9: Are business emails in Norway typically written in English or Norwegian?
A9: While many Norwegians are fluent in English and can conduct business in English, the default for internal communication is often Norwegian. If you’re initiating contact, starting in English is respectful unless you’re comfortable with Norwegian. Over time, gauge the preference of your Norwegian counterparts.
Q10: Are there any particular business sectors where Norwegian is essential?
A10: Norwegian can be essential in sectors that deal predominantly with local clients, such as certain retail or service industries. However, English is often the dominant language in global industries like oil, gas, or technology.
If you want to learn Norwegian, you can register for classes here. If you want to check your Norwegian level for free, you can do that here. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you become fluent in Norwegian!
Norwegian A1-A2
Course Overview The Norwegian A1-A2 course is an online program focused on teaching essential Norwegian grammar and vocabulary. It includes a variety of materials and topics, with opportunities to interact with a Norwegian teacher entirely online. Curriculum Highlights The course covers key areas such as grammar and vocabulary and topics such as family, daily life, education, work, traditions, and leisure activities. Who Should Enroll? This course is perfect for beginners or those at the A1 or A2 levels who want to improve their Norwegian skills. What You Get Access to the full Norwegian A1-A2 course. A monthly 1-hour online conversation with a teacher. Many written and oral assignments. Comprehensive information on Norwegian grammar, Norwegian vocabulary and how to use them, important sentence structures, etc. Tips on additional resources to further enhance your Norwegian learning.
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Last updated Dec 10th, 2024
If you want to learn Norwegian, you can register for classes here. We look forward to hearing from you and helping you become fluent in Norwegian.
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