Luk vinduet, hvis det trækker!

the window

Breakdown of Luk vinduet, hvis det trækker!

• det: it
• hvis: if
• lukke: to close
• trække: to pull

Questions & Answers about Luk vinduet, hvis det trækker!

What is the role of the verb luk in this sentence?

Luk is the imperative form of the verb at lukke (to close). It’s used to give a direct command, instructing someone to close the window.

Why is the noun written as vinduet instead of vindue?

In Danish, definite nouns are formed by adding a suffix to the base form. Vindue is the indefinite form meaning “a window,” and by adding -t (the appropriate definite ending for a neuter noun), it becomes vinduet, which means “the window.”

What is the function of the word hvis in this sentence?

Hvis is a subordinating conjunction that means if. It introduces the conditional clause hvis det trækker, setting a condition for when the command (to close the window) should be acted upon.

Why is there a comma before hvis det trækker?

Danish punctuation rules require that subordinate clauses—such as those beginning with hvis—be separated from the main clause by a comma. This comma clarifies the structure of the sentence by indicating where the condition begins.

How does the present tense in trækker fit into this context?

Trækker is the present tense form of at trække. In this context, it describes an ongoing or current condition (a draft or pulling of air). Using the present tense in the conditional clause aligns with the immediate nature of the command given in the main clause.