Question 1

The lesson is about þrátt fyrir (despite). Why does this sentence use þótt instead, and how do they differ?

Accepted Answer

Þrátt fyrir is a preposition that must be followed by a noun phrase in the accusative case, like þrátt fyrir slæman mótvind (despite a bad headwind). Þótt (short for þó að) is a conjunction meaning "although", so it is used because we are introducing a full clause with its own subject and verb.

Question 2

Why is the verb sé used here instead of er?

Accepted Answer

The conjunction þótt always triggers the subjunctive mood, which is why we use sé instead of the regular indicative er. In Icelandic, you must use the subjunctive after þótt even if you are stating a concrete fact (like the wind currently being bad) rather than a hypothetical scenario.

Question 3

Why is the word order ætlum við rather than við ætlum in the second half of the sentence?

Accepted Answer

This is the strict V2 (verb-second) rule in action. The entire first clause (Þótt mótvindurinn sé slæmur) counts as the first block of information. To keep the main verb in the second position of the overall sentence, ætlum must come immediately after the comma, forcing the subject (við) to follow it.

Question 4

The English translation says "we intend to go to the peak", but there is no verb for "go" here. Is a word missing?

Accepted Answer

No, it is perfectly complete! When using ætla (to intend or plan) along with a preposition indicating a destination (like á tindinn), Icelandic naturally omits the verb of motion (such as að fara). You are essentially just saying "we intend onto the peak".

Þótt mótvindurinn sé slæmur ætlum við á tindinn.

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