Meaning
Situations have multiple perspectives.
Cultural Background
Norwegians value 'likestilling' (equality) and 'demokrati'. This phrase is often used in schools to teach children conflict resolution. The 'Law of Jante' (Janteloven) discourages individual arrogance. Acknowledging 'two sides' is a way to stay humble and not claim you have the only truth. The Norwegian legal system is based on the principle of 'kontradiksjon'. This proverb is the 'layman's version' of that legal requirement. Norwegian work culture is very flat. Even a boss might use this phrase when talking to an intern to show they are open to feedback.
The Diplomat's Secret
Use this phrase to avoid answering a difficult question in a group setting. It makes you look thoughtful without committing to a side.
Don't be too neutral
If you use this phrase too much, people might think you don't have your own opinions. Use it sparingly!
Meaning
Situations have multiple perspectives.
The Diplomat's Secret
Use this phrase to avoid answering a difficult question in a group setting. It makes you look thoughtful without committing to a side.
Don't be too neutral
If you use this phrase too much, people might think you don't have your own opinions. Use it sparingly!
Saklighet
Remember that being 'saklig' is a virtue in Norway. This phrase is your best friend for sounding 'saklig'.
Test Yourself
Fyll inn det manglende ordet i ordtaket.
Det er to sider av samme _______.
Ordtaket bruker alltid ordet 'sak'.
Hvilken situasjon passer best for dette ordtaket?
Du hører to venner krangle om hvem som glemte å låse døra.
Dette uttrykket brukes for å vise at begge kan ha rett eller en forklaring.
Fullfør dialogen.
A: Jeg hater den nye regelen på jobben! B: Jeg forstår, men husk at...
Dette er den mest naturlige måten å nyansere en diskusjon på.
Hvilken setning er grammatisk korrekt og et vanlig ordtak?
Velg riktig alternativ:
Preposisjonen 'av' og ubestemt form 'sak' er det vanligste.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesDet er to sider av samme _______.
Ordtaket bruker alltid ordet 'sak'.
Du hører to venner krangle om hvem som glemte å låse døra.
Dette uttrykket brukes for å vise at begge kan ha rett eller en forklaring.
A: Jeg hater den nye regelen på jobben! B: Jeg forstår, men husk at...
Dette er den mest naturlige måten å nyansere en diskusjon på.
Velg riktig alternativ:
Preposisjonen 'av' og ubestemt form 'sak' er det vanligste.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questionsYes, but it's slightly different. 'Mynt' (coin) is usually for pros/cons of one thing, while 'sak' (case) is for two people's perspectives.
No, it's neutral. It can be used in any context from a courtroom to a kitchen.
In many Norwegian idioms with 'samme', the following noun is indefinite. It's just a fixed pattern.
Extremely common in editorials and opinion pieces to show balance.
No, it's only for abstract situations, arguments, or cases.
Related Phrases
To sider av samme medalje
similarTwo sides of the same coin.
Saken er biff
specialized formThe matter is settled/cleared up.
Å se saken fra begge sider
builds onTo see the matter from both sides.
Ingen sak
contrastNo problem / easy.
