Learn Hardcore Norwegian: Vi får en gjest i kveld, og vi må gjøre kjøkkenet klart. - We are getting a guest tonight, and we have to prepare the kitchen.

In this context, får translates as “are getting” or “are expecting.” It indicates that a guest is anticipated to arrive. Using har (which means “have” in a possessive sense) would suggest ownership rather than the occurrence of an event.

Why is the noun kjøkkenet in the definite form while en gjest is in the indefinite form?

Kjøkkenet is in the definite form because it refers to a specific, known kitchen—typically the one in your home. In contrast, en gjest employs the indefinite article to introduce an unspecified guest, much like “a guest” in English.

What is the function of the comma before og in this sentence?

The comma separates two independent clauses: Vi får en gjest i kveld and vi må gjøre kjøkkenet klart. This punctuation clarifies that each clause stands on its own while being joined by the coordinating conjunction og (and).

How is the modal verb må used in this sentence?

The modal verb må means “must” or “have to.” It is used here to express obligation, showing that there is a necessity to prepare the kitchen because the guest is arriving.

Can you explain the structure of the phrase gjøre kjøkkenet klart?

Certainly. In the phrase, gjøre is the bare infinitive, meaning “to make” or “to get.” It is followed by the object kjøkkenet (the kitchen) and then klart, which functions as an adjective describing the state the kitchen should be in (ready). This verb–object–complement order is typical in Norwegian.

Are there alternative ways to express “getting the kitchen ready” in Norwegian?

Yes, another common phrase is gjøre kjøkkenet ferdig, which also conveys the idea of preparing or finishing up the kitchen. However, gjøre kjøkkenet klart is often used when emphasizing that the kitchen needs to be made ready for a specific event, such as hosting a guest.