Young Danish editor launches project to counter English phrases infiltrating language

Young people are seen on the dance floor, some reaching retirement age, while others aspire to become Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) at large companies. English words and phrases continuously infiltrate the Danish language, as illustrated by examples such as “floor,” “peak,” and “CEO.” However, is this influx excessive? Rune Lykkeberg, the editor-in-chief of a Danish newspaper, has initiated a so-called resistance project, inviting readers to submit Danish translations for frequently used English expressions.

The first word to be translated is “bias,” which refers to a preconception or distortion in results. Lykkeberg acknowledges that some English terms are simply effective. He points out that while “bias” is concise and clear, relying on English instead of Danish contributes to a “cultural inundation” and “globalist jargon.”

Language researcher Michael Ejstrup argues that this adaptation is quite common and historical, noting that like past influences from German, English will similarly impact Danish. If political relations improve with countries like Russia or China, he anticipates a swift incorporation of their terms as well.

Henrik Gottlieb, a language and translation researcher at the University of Copenhagen, has compiled around 15,000 English phrases over the last decade. He notes that expressions such as “my better half” and “don’t cry over spilled milk” are not originally Danish. While some English terms add nuance, others complicate the language. For instance, “bias” is easier to articulate than its Danish counterparts, and words are often adopted just for their trendy appeal. Gottlieb warns that frequent English usage could diminish the clarity and correctness of Danish, particularly in media, where terminology has evolved in confusing ways, leading to misunderstandings in reporting sensitive issues.