Learning a new language can be a daunting task, and Icelandic, with its unique grammar and vocabulary, is no exception. One common point of confusion for learners of Icelandic is the distinction between **”þetta”** and **”þetta er.”** Both phrases translate to “this” and “this is” respectively in English, but understanding their usage in different contexts is crucial for mastering the language.
Understanding “Þetta”
**Þetta** is a demonstrative pronoun that translates to “this” in English. It is used to refer to something that is close to the speaker, similarly to how “this” is used in English.
Þetta – This
Þetta er bók.
In this example, **”þetta”** is used to refer to the book that is close to the speaker. It is important to note that **”þetta”** can be used on its own to point out something without necessarily providing additional information.
Þetta – This
Þetta er gott.
Here, **”þetta”** is used to refer to something that is considered good by the speaker, without specifying what it is.
Understanding “Þetta er”
**Þetta er** translates to “this is” in English. It combines the demonstrative pronoun **”þetta”** with the verb **”er,”** which is the third person singular form of the verb “to be” (vera). This phrase is used when you want to provide more information about the object or subject being referred to.
Þetta er – This is
Þetta er nýtt hús.
In this sentence, **”þetta er”** is used to introduce new information about the house, specifying that it is new.
Þetta er – This is
Þetta er vinur minn.
Here, **”þetta er”** is used to introduce the speaker’s friend.
Key Differences
The main difference between **”þetta”** and **”þetta er”** is that **”þetta”** is used as a standalone demonstrative pronoun, while **”þetta er”** is used to provide additional information about the subject or object being referred to.
Grammar Points
When using **”þetta”** on its own, it often appears at the beginning of a sentence and is followed by a verb or an adjective.
Þetta – This
Þetta er skemmtilegt.
When using **”þetta er,”** it is typically followed by a noun or an adjective that provides more information about the subject.
Þetta er – This is
Þetta er mjög áhugavert.
Practical Examples
Let’s look at some practical examples to see how **”þetta”** and **”þetta er”** are used in different contexts.
Þetta – This
Þetta er ekki rétt.
Þetta er – This is
Þetta er staðreynd.
In the first example, **”þetta”** is used to state that something is not correct, while in the second example, **”þetta er”** is used to state a fact.
Common Mistakes
One common mistake that learners make is using **”þetta”** when they should be using **”þetta er.”** This usually happens when they try to provide more information about the subject but forget to include the verb **”er.”**
Incorrect: Þetta bók.
Correct: Þetta er bók.
In the incorrect example, the verb **”er”** is missing, making the sentence incomplete.
Practice Exercises
To help you get a better grasp of the differences between **”þetta”** and **”þetta er,”** here are some practice exercises:
1. Translate the following sentences into Icelandic:
– This is a cat.
– This is interesting.
– This is my friend.
– This is a book.
2. Identify whether **”þetta”** or **”þetta er”** should be used in the following sentences:
– _______ er fallegt.
– _______ nýtt hús.
– _______ er vinur minn.
– _______ ekki rétt.
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between **”þetta”** and **”þetta er”** is essential for effective communication in Icelandic. While both phrases translate to “this” and “this is” in English, their usage differs depending on the context. **”Þetta”** is used as a standalone demonstrative pronoun, while **”þetta er”** is used to provide additional information about the subject or object. By practicing and familiarizing yourself with these phrases, you will be well on your way to mastering Icelandic.
