Breakdown of Hann skoðaði niðurstöðu atkvæðanna.
hann
he
skoða
to look at
niðurstaðan
the result
atkvæðið
the vote
Questions & Answers about Hann skoðaði niðurstöðu atkvæðanna.
How is the word atkvæðanna formed to mean 'of the votes'?
Why is there no word for 'of' in this sentence?
In Icelandic, the word 'of' is built directly into the grammar using the genitive case. By putting atkvæðanna in the genitive case right after niðurstöðu (result), it automatically translates as 'the result of the votes'.
Why does niðurstöðu end in a '-u' instead of its dictionary form ending?
The dictionary form is niðurstaða (a feminine noun). It changes its ending to -u because it is the direct object of the verb skoðaði (examined), which means it must be in the accusative case.
How can I tell that skoðaði is in the past tense?
The base verb is skoða (to examine). The -ði ending is a common sign of the past tense for regular verbs when the subject is 'he', 'she', or 'it'.