Breakdown of Fyrst velur leikmaðurinn litinn.
liturinn
the color
velja
to choose
fyrst
first (adverb)
leikmaðurinn
the player
Questions & Answers about Fyrst velur leikmaðurinn litinn.
Why does the verb velur come before the subject leikmaðurinn?
Icelandic uses a strict verb-second (V2) rule. Because the sentence starts with the sequence connector Fyrst (First), the verb velur (chooses) must be the second piece of information, pushing the subject leikmaðurinn (the player) into the third spot.
Does Fyrst have to go at the very beginning of the sentence?
Not necessarily, but it is very common because it introduces a new sequence of events. You could also put it at the end, like Leikmaðurinn velur litinn fyrst. Just remember that putting Fyrst at the start is what triggers that verb-second rule!
How is the word leikmaðurinn built?
It is a compound noun made from leikur (game) and maður (man or person), literally meaning a game-person. The -inn at the very end is the attached definite article, making it the player.
Why is 'the color' spelled as litinn here instead of liturinn?
The verb velja (to choose) requires its object to be in the accusative case. The dictionary form of the masculine word for 'the color' is liturinn, but in the accusative case, the ending changes to litinn.
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