Breakdown of Skál fyrir nýjum og farsælum árum!
og
and
nýr
new
fyrir
for (fyrir þig)
árið
the year
skál
cheers
farsæll
successful
Questions & Answers about Skál fyrir nýjum og farsælum árum!
Since this lesson focuses on using the subjunctive for wishes, where is the subjunctive verb in this sentence?
There actually isn't one! While many wishes use a subjunctive verb, toasts starting with Skál fyrir (Cheers to) just use a noun and a preposition. It is a very common way to express a wish or exhortation without needing a verb at all.
Why does fyrir trigger the dative case here instead of the accusative?
Fyrir is a two-case preposition. While it often takes the accusative when it means 'for' (as in doing something on behalf of someone), the specific phrase skál fyrir (cheers to) always requires the dative case. You will also see this in phrases like skál fyrir þér (cheers to you).
Why do the adjectives nýjum and farsælum both end in -um?
They are agreeing with the dative plural noun árum. In Icelandic, the strong adjective ending for the dative plural is -um regardless of the noun's gender, which makes this entire phrase rhyme nicely.
Is farsælum strictly used for business or financial success?
No, it has a broader and warmer meaning. While it translates to 'successful,' it also implies being 'prosperous,' 'fortunate,' or 'blessed.' It is the traditional and standard adjective used in Iceland for New Year's wishes.
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