Learn Hardcore Norwegian: Denne jakken er ganske tung, men den holder meg varm. - This jacket is quite heavy, but it keeps me warm.

Denne is a demonstrative adjective that means this. It modifies jakken (the jacket) and specifies which jacket is being talked about. By using denne, the speaker clearly indicates a particular jacket that is likely nearby or known from the context.

How does the phrase ganske tung function in the sentence, and what is its meaning?

The phrase ganske tung combines the adverb ganske (meaning quite or fairly) with the adjective tung (meaning heavy). Together, they emphasize that the jacket has a notable weight—it’s heavy, but not necessarily in an extreme or negative way. This construction helps set up a contrast with a beneficial quality mentioned later.

Why is the pronoun den used in the second part of the sentence instead of repeating jakken?

Den is a pronoun that refers back to jakken. Since jakken is a masculine noun in Norwegian, den is used as its pronoun equivalent (similar to it in English). This avoids repetition and makes the sentence flow more naturally by linking the two ideas.

What does holder meg varm mean, and why is this expression used?

Holder meg varm translates to keeps me warm. The verb holder means keeps, and varm means warm. This idiomatic expression is commonly used in Norwegian to describe something that maintains the wearer’s body heat. In this sentence, it highlights the positive function of the jacket despite its heaviness.

What is the function of the comma and men in this sentence structure?

The comma, followed by the conjunction men (which means but), connects two contrasting clauses. The first clause, Denne jakken er ganske tung, states a potentially negative quality (the jacket being heavy). The second clause, men den holder meg varm, offers a redeeming quality (the jacket keeps the wearer warm). This structure effectively communicates that although the jacket has a drawback, it also serves an important beneficial purpose.