Breakdown of Við reiknum kostnaðinn áður en við förum.
við
we
fara
to go
reikna
to calculate
kostnaðinn
the cost
áður en
before
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Questions & Answers about Við reiknum kostnaðinn áður en við förum.
What does við mean in this sentence?
Við is the personal pronoun for “we”. It serves as the subject in both parts of the sentence, clarifying that the actions are performed by the speaker and others included.
How is kostnaðinn formed and what does it signify?
Kostnaðinn is the definite form of the noun kostnaður meaning “cost”. In Icelandic, definite articles are typically expressed by adding a suffix (here, -inn) directly to the noun, so kostnaðinn translates to “the cost”.
Why are the verbs reiknum and förum conjugated in their particular forms?
Both reiknum and förum are in the first-person plural present tense. This form matches the subject við (we), indicating that the actions — calculating and going — are being performed by the speaker along with others, and that they are happening in the present.
What is the function of the phrase "áður en" in this sentence?
Áður en is a subordinating conjunction meaning “before”. It connects the two clauses by indicating that the action of calculating the cost occurs prior to the action of leaving.
Is it necessary to repeat the subject við in the subordinate clause?
Yes, repeating við in the subordinate clause helps maintain clarity and confirms that the same group is carrying out both actions. While some languages allow dropping the subject when it’s obvious from context, in Icelandic it is common and grammatically preferred to include the subject in each clause.