Vi ser lynet.

we

Breakdown of Vi ser lynet.

• se: to see
• lynet: the lightning

Questions & Answers about Vi ser lynet.

Why is lynet one word instead of the + noun?

In Norwegian, the definite article is usually added to the end of the noun.

• et lyn = a lightning flash / a bolt of lightning
• lynet = the lightning

So -et is the definite ending here. That is why Norwegian uses one word, lynet, where English uses two words, the lightning.

Why is it lynet and not just lyn?

Lyn is the indefinite form, while lynet is the definite form.

In a sentence like Vi ser lynet, Norwegian often uses the definite form when talking about something specific that is present in the situation, such as the lightning you can currently see.

English and Norwegian do not always match exactly here. English may simply say We see lightning, but Norwegian often prefers the form in contexts like this.

What is the dictionary form of ser?

The dictionary form is å se, which means to see.

Here are the basic forms:

• å se = to see
• ser = see / sees / am seeing / are seeing / is seeing, depending on context

In Vi ser lynet, ser is the present tense form.

Does ser change depending on the subject, like English I see / he sees?