Question 1

Why are the two parts of hvert annað in different cases?

Accepted Answer

This is the "split case" feature of reciprocal pronouns. The first part (hvert) matches the case of the subject (þau, which is nominative). The second part (annað) takes the case governed by the main verb. Since gleðja (to make happy) requires an accusative object, we use the accusative form annað.

Question 2

Since þau is plural, why are hvert and annað in their singular forms?

Accepted Answer

Even though the subject is plural, the reciprocal pronoun is almost always grammatically singular—think of it as literally saying "each [one] gladdens another". Because þau is a neuter pronoun (used here for a mixed-gender group), both halves take neuter singular forms.

Question 3

Could I use hvort annað instead of hvert annað here?

Accepted Answer

Only if you were talking about exactly two people! The pronoun hvor annar is strictly for pairs. Because this sentence uses hvert annað (from hver annar), it implies that this friendship group consists of three or more people.

Question 4

Why is the verb sé used instead of er?

Accepted Answer

The conjunction þó að (even though / although) forces the verb that follows it into the subjunctive mood. Sé is the present subjunctive form of vera (to be), matching the third-person singular subject vináttan.

Question 5

Why does the main clause start with the verb (gleðja þau) rather than the subject (þau gleðja)?

Accepted Answer

This is the V2 (verb-second) rule in action. The entire subordinate clause (Þó að vináttan sé gömul) counts as the first block of information in the sentence. To keep the main verb in the second position, gleðja must come immediately after the comma, pushing the subject (þau) behind it.

Þó að vináttan sé gömul gleðja þau hvert annað.

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