Direct objects on definite nouns

When a definite noun (like "the door" instead of "a door") is the direct object of a verb, its attached article must take the accusative case.

Nouns Ending in a Consonant

For feminine nouns ending in a consonant (like hurð), attach -ina.

I open the door.
Ég opna hurðina.

For most masculine nouns, first drop the nominative ending (like the -ur in strákur or the extra -l in lykill), then attach -inn.

I want to find the key.
Mig langar að finna lykilinn.
Do you know the boy?
Þekkir þú strákinn?

Nouns Ending in a Vowel

For nouns ending in a vowel, apply the normal accusative shift before adding the definite article:

  • Feminine nouns change their final -a to -u and attach -na.
She often uses the computer.
Hún notar oft tölvuna.
He is looking at the sweater now.
Hann skoðar peysuna núna.
  • Masculine nouns change their final -i to -a and attach -nn.
I know the teacher very well.
Ég þekki kennarann mjög vel.

More Examples

Always look for the base word, apply its normal accusative shift, and lock in the definite ending.

Do you see the chair outside?
Sérð þú stólinn úti?
I am reading the book at home.
Ég les bókina heima.
She is eating the cake.
Hún borðar kökuna.
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