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Article published In: Labeling in Language, Gender and Sexuality Studies
Edited by Heiko Motschenbacher
[Journal of Language and Sexuality 15:1] 2026
► pp. 50–72

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Labeling gender across and beyond the binary

Introduction of the gender-neutral pronoun hen in Norwegian standard language

ORCiD logo with link | Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, Bergen, Norway
 | Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, Bergen, Norway
 | Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, Bergen, Norway
Published online: 5 January 2026
DOI logo with link
https://doi.org/10.1075/jls.24033.bug
Abstract
This article focuses on the formal codification of the gender-neutral pronoun hen in Norwegian by analysing retrospective narratives from two central staff from the Language Council of Norway as well as two lexicographers in charge of the entry in the Norwegian Standard dictionaries (Nynorskordboka and Bokmålsordboka). The analyses employ labeling theory as a theoretical lens and it is situated in the field of language policy and planning (LPP). The participants depict a stepwise process: (1) enquiries and preparations, (2) a period of turmoil with the allocation of power to different actors and (3) publication, reception and acceptance. Beyond this process, a historical shift is described in the power relation in LPP between majority and minority in the language community, which includes an increased respect for a minority’s right to self-labeling, and perhaps also increased attention paid to avoiding linguistic wounding.
Article outline
  • 1.Introduction
  • 2.Background
    • 2.1Gender and pronouns in Norwegian
    • 2.2Language planning and language change
    • 2.3Hen as a Norwegian language policy and planning case
  • 3.Methodology
    • 3.1Discourse analysis
  • 4.Findings
    • 4.1Enquiries and preparations: It’s time!
    • 4.2A period of turmoil
    • 4.3Publication, reception, and acceptance
    • 4.4A historical shift
  • 5.Discussion
  • Notes
  • References
References (46)
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