Learn Hardcore Norwegian: Han liker å lytte til musikk mens han jobber sent på kvelden. - He likes to listen to music while he works late at night.

In Norwegian, å marks the beginning of an infinitive verb, much like the word "to" in English. It tells you that lytte is in its base form. Here, after liker (likes), the infinitive phrase å lytte til musikk (to listen to music) explains what he enjoys doing.

Why is the preposition til used in lytte til musikk?

The preposition til works similarly to the English word "to" when paired with verbs like lytte (to listen). It connects the action of listening with its object, musikk (music), clarifying what is being listened to.

What does the conjunction mens mean, and why is it used in this sentence?

The word mens means while. It functions as a conjunction that links two actions happening at the same time. In the sentence, it connects the main action (liking to listen to music) with the secondary action (working late in the evening), showing that these events occur concurrently.

Why is the subject han repeated in both clauses?

Each clause in Norwegian often has its own explicit subject for clarity. Although the same person is performing both actions, repeating han (he) in the main and subordinate clauses helps clearly indicate that both actions are done by the same person. This repetition is common in Norwegian sentence structure, especially in more complex sentences.

What is the function of the adverb sent in the phrase jobber sent på kvelden?

The adverb sent modifies the verb jobber (works) by specifying the time frame—namely, that the work happens late. Combined with på kvelden (in the evening), it gives a detailed description that he works during the later part of the evening.

Is there any difference between using lytte and høre på when referring to listening to music?

While both lytte and høre på can translate as listen in English, there are subtle differences in usage. Lytte tends to suggest a more active or intentional listening, often used in formal or specific contexts. Høre på is more common in everyday conversation and can imply a more relaxed, passive listening experience. In this sentence, lytte is chosen to emphasize that he actively enjoys listening to music while working.