Learn Hardcore Norwegian: Vi begynner å spille gitar.

The marker å is used to form the infinitive of the verb spille, similar to the English "to" in "to play." It signals that spille is in its base form and serves as a complement to the main verb begynner.

How does the verb begynner work with the subject vi?

In Norwegian, the present tense verb does not change its form much regardless of the subject. Here, begynner is used with vi (meaning "we") without any alteration. This is typical in Norwegian, as the verb remains the same for most subjects in the present tense.

Why is there no article before gitar?

Norwegian often omits an article when referring to musical instruments in a general sense. In this sentence, gitar is used in its indefinite form, much like saying "play guitar" in English instead of "play the guitar."

What is the sentence structure of Vi begynner å spille gitar?

The structure follows a standard Subject-Verb-Complement pattern. Vi (we) is the subject, begynner (start/begin) is the main verb, and å spille gitar forms the infinitive phrase acting as the complement, with spille as the verb and gitar as its object.

Can this sentence express an ongoing or imminent action like the English present continuous?

Yes, even though Norwegian doesn’t have a direct present continuous form, the present tense can indicate an action that is currently unfolding or about to start. Vi begynner å spille gitar can be understood as "we are starting to play guitar," implying an action that is in the process of beginning.