Question 1

Why do we use þar sem for 'where' instead of hvar?

Accepted Answer

In Icelandic, hvar is strictly a question word used to ask where something is. When you are referring back to a physical location in a statement, like the bush in this sentence, you must use the locative relative clause þar sem. This literally translates to 'there as'.

Question 2

The phrase is á bak við, but why is the word for 'the bush' in the accusative form (runnann)?

Accepted Answer

The compound preposition á bak við (behind) always triggers the accusative case for the noun that follows it. The masculine base word for bush is runni, which changes to runna in the accusative, and adding the attached definite article makes it runnann.

Question 3

Why is it betur instead of betri for 'better'?

Accepted Answer

You need an adverb here because it describes the verb, how you see (að sjá). betur is the comparative form of the adverb vel (well). betri is an adjective, which you would only use to describe a noun, like a 'better bush'.

Question 4

Is húki a common verb for sitting or hiding?

Accepted Answer

The verb að húka specifically means to crouch, squat, or huddle. It often implies making yourself small to hide, stay warm, or fit into a tight space, so it is much more descriptive here than simply sitting (að sitja).

Ég húki á bak við runnann, þar sem ég sé betur.

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