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Questions & Answers about Hann ætlar að fara heim.
What is the function of the verb ætlar in the sentence?
Ætlar is the third person singular present form of the verb meaning “to intend” or “to plan.” In this sentence, it tells us that "Hann" (he) has the intention of doing something, which is expressed by the following infinitive phrase.
Why is the infinitive marker að placed before fara?
In Icelandic, verbs that express intention or planning—like ætlar—are followed by an infinitive that is introduced with the marker að. This construction is similar to using “to” in English (as in “to go”) and is necessary to properly link the intention verb with the action described by fara (“go”).
How does the structure ætlar að fara compare to similar constructions in English?
The structure ætlar að fara closely mirrors the English construction “intends to go.” Both use a verb of intention followed by an infinitive. However, while English simply uses “to,” Icelandic requires the explicit particle að before the infinitive verb, making it an essential part of the grammatical construction.
What role does heim play in the sentence, and why is it positioned at the end?
Heim means “home” and functions as a directional or adverbial complement, indicating the destination of the action. Its placement at the end of the sentence follows typical Icelandic word order, where such adverbials often come at the end for clarity and emphasis.
Does the sentence express a future action even though it is written in the present tense?
Yes, although the verb ætlar is in the present tense, the sentence implies a future intention—“He intends to go home.” Icelandic, like English, often uses the present tense to indicate planned or imminent future actions, especially when paired with a verb that clearly states intention.
Are there any other verbs in Icelandic that require the að + infinitive construction?
Absolutely. Many Icelandic verbs—which express desire, obligation, ability, or planning—follow the pattern of being combined with an infinitive introduced by að. Once you become familiar with ætlar að fara, you’ll notice similar structures in other contexts, making this a key pattern in Icelandic grammar.
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