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Questions & Answers about Ekki spilla endinum!
Why is spilla in the infinitive here instead of an imperative form?
Because Icelandic very often forms a negative command with ekki + infinitive.
So:
- Ekki spilla endinum! = a normal way to say Don’t spoil the ending!
This is different from English, where we usually use don’t + base verb. In Icelandic, this ekki + infinitive pattern is extremely common for warnings, instructions, and general prohibitions.
Could I also say Spilltu ekki endinum!?
Yes. That is also possible.
There are two useful patterns to know:
- Ekki + infinitive → Ekki spilla endinum!
- Imperative + ekki → Spilltu ekki endinum!
The difference is mostly one of style and directness:
- Ekki spilla endinum! sounds like a general prohibition or warning.
- Spilltu ekki endinum! sounds more directly addressed to one person.
If speaking to several people, you could say:
- Spillið ekki endinum!
So the sentence you were given is not the only possible form, but it is a very natural one.
Why is it endinum and not an accusative form?