Relationships and Partnerships
Before we look at how partners interact, let's learn a few essential words for talking about couples and romance.
You might also refer to your partner as your spouse (makinn), or mention that the two of you are engaged (trúlofaður).
Saying "Each Other" (Hvor annar)
When exactly two entities act upon each other, Icelandic uses the reciprocal pronoun phrase hvor annar (each other).
This phrase is made of two words that change depending on gender and case. However, when talking about a mixed-gender couple, or when using the plural pronouns við (we), þið (you plural), or þau (they) to refer to two people, you will overwhelmingly use the neuter accusative form: hvort annað.
You will use hvort annað as the direct object of verbs like to love, or to support (styðja).
"Hvort annað" with Prepositions
You can also use hvort annað after prepositions that take the accusative case, such as á and við. For example, the verb to listen (hlusta) always pairs with the preposition á.
Relationships aren't always easy. If a couple is arguing (rífast), they argue with (við) each other. Both á and við take the accusative, keeping the phrase as hvort annað.
The Ups and Downs of Romance
Every partnership has its highs and lows. You might go on a romantic date (rómantískt stefnumót), but if someone is too jealous (öfundsjúkur), it might eventually lead to a divorce (skilnaður).