The SWAP Rule
In Danish, a noun usually gets its "the" from a suffix attached to the end of the word, like sofaen (the sofa). But when you add an adjective to describe it, you cannot simply put the adjective in front of the word.
Instead, you must use the SWAP rule:
- Drop the noun's definite suffix (return it to its base form, like sofa).
- Swap the suffix for a free-standing article placed in front of the adjective.
- Add an -e to the end of the adjective.
For common gender nouns (words that use en), use the free-standing article den.
Neuter Nouns
For neuter nouns (words that use et), the rule is exactly the same, but you use the free-standing article det. The adjective still gets the -e ending.
(Note: When adding an ending to words like gammel, it drops a letter to become gamle.)
Plural Nouns
When describing plural definite nouns, use the free-standing plural article de. Just like with singular nouns, the adjective takes an -e ending.
Putting It All Together
Always remember the formula for definite attributive adjectives: den / det / de + adjective with -e + noun without definite suffix. Make sure you don't accidentally leave the definite suffix attached to the noun!