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Questions & Answers about Stasjonen er veldig vakker.
Why is the definite form used in stasjonen instead of the indefinite form stasjon?
Norwegian uses the definite form (adding -en, -a, or -et to the noun) when referring to a specific item. In this case, stasjonen means the station (already known or specified), whereas en stasjon means a station (more general).
How do I know whether to say stasjon or stasjonen?
If you’re talking about any station in general, use en stasjon. If you’re talking about a particular station, use the definite form stasjonen. This function is similar to “a station” vs. “the station” in English.
Is er always used for “is” in Norwegian?
Yes. Er is the present tense of å være (to be) in Norwegian. It corresponds to English “is,” “are,” and “am,” depending on the subject:
• Jeg er (I am)
• Du er (You are)
• Han/hun/det er (He/she/it is)
• Vi er (We are)
• Dere er (You [plural] are)
• De er (They are)
Why is the adjective vakker and not something like vakkert?
When describing a singular noun in the definite form (like stasjonen), the base form of the adjective is used: vakker. If you were describing a neuter-gender noun or a plural form, you might alter the ending. For example, et vakkert hus (a beautiful house) or vakre hus (beautiful houses).
What does veldig mean, and why is it placed before vakker?
Veldig is an adverb meaning very. In Norwegian, adverbs generally come before the adjective they modify, much like in English. So veldig vakker means very beautiful.
Can I use other synonyms of vakker in this sentence?
Yes, you can use words like fin or pen. For example:
• Stasjonen er veldig fin (The station is very nice).
• Stasjonen er veldig pen (The station is very pretty).
They convey a similar meaning, though vakker often sounds a bit more elegant.