grundvallarorð
The phrase for "basic words" in Icelandic is grundvallarorð.
grundvallarorð refers to the most essential or fundamental words needed to communicate in a language.
What does it mean word for word?
This is a compound word consisting of grundvallar, meaning "of fundamental/basic" and orð, meaning "words".
How does it change in a sentence?
grundvallarorð is a neuter noun. It remains the same in both the singular and plural nominative forms.
Did you know?
- Because Icelandic resists loanwords, many grundvallarorð for modern technology are newly coined words based on ancient roots rather than borrowings from English.
- The word orð is a direct descendant of the Old Norse term, meaning a person today uses the same 'basic word' for 'word' that Vikings used over a millennium ago.
- The term grundvöllur within grundvallarorð literally refers to a 'foundation' or 'ground'. It treats language learning like building a house.
Examples in context
- Ég þarf að læra nokkur grundvallarorð.I need to learn some basic words.
- Þetta eru mikilvæg grundvallarorð fyrir ferðalag.These are important basic words for a trip.
Example conversation
Jón and Katrín are discussing a language course.
- JónHvar get ég fundið grundvallarorð í íslensku?Where can I find basic words in Icelandic?
- KatrínÉg get sent þér bók með þau, Jón.I can send you a book with them, Jón.
- JónTakk, Katrín, það væri mjög gott.Thanks, Katrín, that would be very good.
- KatrínEkkert mál, ég sendi hana straks.No problem, I will send it right away.
