Learn Icelandic: Talar þú ensku? - Do you speak English?

In English, we use the helper word "do" to ask questions, but Icelandic doesn't do this! To ask a yes/no question in Icelandic, you simply put the action word (the verb) first. Instead of the regular statement order þú talar (you speak), you swap the words around to make it talar þú (speak you?).

Why does the word for English end in "-u" (ensku) instead of "-a" (enska)?

The basic dictionary word for the English language is enska. However, the verb tala (to speak) forces the word that follows it into a grammatical form called the accusative case. For feminine nouns ending in "-a" like enska, this case changes the final letter to "-u", giving us ensku.

Can I use þú with anyone, or is there a formal word for "you"?

Þú is the singular word for "you", and in modern Icelandic, it is used with practically everyone. You don't need to worry about using a special formal "you" when speaking to strangers, store clerks, or older people.

If talar is used for "you speak", how do I answer the question and say "I speak"?

Icelandic verbs change their endings depending on who is doing the action. Talar is the form used for "you" (as well as he, she, and it). To say "I speak", you drop the "-r" at the end and say ég tala.