In the previous lesson, you saw how Icelandic uses the pronoun það (and its declined forms) to connect a preposition to an action. This lesson focuses on two of the most common and useful set phrases that use this exact structure: með því að (by doing) and án þess að (without doing). Both are always followed by an infinitive verb.
By doing (með því að)
To explain the method or means by which you achieve something, use the preposition með (with/by). Because með governs the dative case in this context, the connecting pronoun becomes því.
| You learn Icelandic by speaking it. | Þú lærir íslensku með því að tala hana. |
| We reach the goal by practicing every day. | Við náum markmiðinu með því að æfa á hverjum degi. |
Without doing (án þess að)
To express an exclusion—doing something without an accompanying action—use the preposition án (without). Since án governs the genitive case, the pronoun changes to þess.
| He walks out without saying goodbye. | Hann labbar út án þess að kveðja. |
| The students who understand the text read it without stopping. | Nemendurnir sem skilja textann lesa hann án þess að stoppa. |
| We need to keep going without giving up. | Við þurfum að halda áfram án þess að gefast upp. |
Actions and Consequences
These two phrases are extremely versatile. You will frequently use them to discuss personal goals, learning habits, and how your actions impact outcomes. Notice how the infinitive verb always anchors the end of the phrase, no matter what vocabulary you are using.
| She accomplishes the goal by working a lot. | Hún afrekar markmiðið með því að vinna mikið. |
| You lose the game by giving up. | Þú tapar leiknum með því að gefast upp. |
| The boy often plays without cheating. | Strákurinn spilar oft án þess að svindla. |
| He says this without insulting the girl. | Hann segir þetta án þess að móðga stúlkuna. |
| She answers the question without hesitating. | Hún svarar spurningunni án þess að hika. |
| You relax by breathing slowly. | Þú slakar á með því að anda hægt. |