To refer to an alternative option, Icelandic uses the indefinite pronoun annar (other / another).
Like adjectives, it must agree with the noun it modifies in gender, number, and case. Here are the singular forms for the nominative (subject) and accusative (direct object) cases:
| Gender | Nominative | Accusative |
|---|---|---|
| Masculine | annar | annan |
| Feminine | önnur | aðra |
| Neuter | annað | annað |
As a Direct Object (Accusative)
When you buy, want, or need "another" item, it is the direct object of the sentence and takes the accusative case. Notice how the masculine becomes annan and the feminine becomes aðra.
| I intend to buy another piece of furniture and another curtain. | Ég ætla að kaupa annað húsgagn og aðra gardínu. |
| I need to buy another cushion and another rug. | Ég þarf að kaupa annan púða og aðra mottu. |
Plural Forms
When talking about multiple "other" things, annar uses its plural forms. For instance, in the accusative case, the masculine plural is aðra (aðra stóla) and the neuter plural is önnur (önnur húsgögn).
| They have other chairs and other furniture. | Þau eiga aðra stóla og önnur húsgögn. |
Standing Alone
If the item you are talking about is already clear from context, you can leave the noun out entirely. The pronoun annar stands alone and keeps the gender and case of the missing noun.
| This wood is good but we need another one. | Þessi viður er góður en við þurfum annan. |
| He ordered another because this rug was too big. | Hann pantaði aðra af því að þessi motta var of stór. |
As the Subject (Nominative)
When "another" thing is the subject of your sentence, use the nominative forms.
| Another design is also an option. | Önnur hönnun er líka valkostur. |
| Another piece of furniture is inside. | Annað húsgagn er inni. |