Language/Icelandic/Vocabulary/Telling-Time
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Introduction[edit | edit source]
In this lesson, we will learn about telling time in Icelandic. Understanding how to ask and provide information about the current time is an essential skill in any language, and Icelandic is no exception. By the end of this lesson, you will be able to confidently tell time in Icelandic, as well as understand time-related vocabulary.
We will begin by learning the basic vocabulary and phrases related to telling time. Then, we will explore the different ways to ask and answer questions about the time. Finally, we will practice what we have learned through exercises and practice scenarios. Are you ready to dive into the fascinating world of Icelandic timekeeping? Let's get started!
Vocabulary[edit | edit source]
Before we delve into the details of telling time in Icelandic, let's familiarize ourselves with some basic vocabulary related to time. Here are a few important words and phrases:
- Tími - Time
- Klukka - Clock
- Mínúta - Minute
- Klukkustund - Hour
- Dagur - Day
- Viku - Week
- Mánuður - Month
- Ár - Year
Now that we have the foundational vocabulary, let's move on to learning how to tell time in Icelandic.
Telling Time[edit | edit source]
In Icelandic, the 24-hour clock system is commonly used. This means that instead of using "AM" and "PM" like in English, Icelanders use the 24-hour format to express time. The hours are numbered from 0 to 23, with 0 representing midnight and 23 representing 11 PM. Let's take a closer look at how to express different times in Icelandic.
The Hours[edit | edit source]
To express the hours in Icelandic, we use the word "klukka" followed by the number. Here are a few examples:
- Klukkan tvö - Two o'clock
- Klukkan átta - Eight o'clock
- Klukkan tólf - Twelve o'clock
- Klukkan sjöttu og þrjátíu - Seven thirty (literally: Seven and thirty)
As you can see, the word "klukka" is always followed by the number representing the hour. In the last example, we see the use of the word "og" (and) to connect the hour and the minutes.
The Minutes[edit | edit source]
To express the minutes in Icelandic, we use the word "mínúta" followed by the number. Here are a few examples:
- Klukkan tvö mínútur - Two minutes past the hour
- Klukkan tíu mínútur yfir - Ten minutes past the hour
- Klukkan hálf eitt - Half past twelve (literally: Half one)
- Klukkan tuttugu og fimm - Twenty-five minutes (literally: Twenty and five)
In the last example, we see the use of the word "og" (and) to connect the tens and the units of minutes.
Asking for the Time[edit | edit source]
To ask for the time in Icelandic, we use the phrase "Hvað er klukkan?" which translates to "What time is it?" Here are a few examples:
- Hvað er klukkan? - What time is it?
- Hvað er klukkan núna? - What time is it now?
- Hvað er klukkan á morgun? - What time is it tomorrow?
When asking for the time, it is common to use the word "núna" (now) or specify a specific time, such as "á morgun" (tomorrow).
Answering the Time[edit | edit source]
To answer the question about the time in Icelandic, we use the phrase "Klukkan er" followed by the time. Here are a few examples:
- Klukkan er þrjú - It is three o'clock
- Klukkan er hálf fjögur - It is half past three (literally: It is half four)
- Klukkan er fimm mínútur yfir - It is five minutes past
- Klukkan er tuttugu mínútur í hálf - It is twenty-five minutes to half (literally: It is twenty minutes to half)
In the last example, we see the use of the phrase "í hálf" (to half) to indicate that the time is approaching the next hour.
Cultural Insights[edit | edit source]
Timekeeping in Iceland is a reflection of the country's unique geographical location and cultural practices. Icelanders have a deep respect for punctuality and value efficiency in their daily lives. It is common for Icelanders to arrive on time for appointments and meetings, as being late is considered disrespectful.
Furthermore, Icelanders have a strong connection to nature and the changing seasons, which is reflected in their perception of time. The long winter nights and the midnight sun during the summer months have a significant influence on how Icelanders experience time. The concept of "slow living" is embraced by many Icelanders, as they prioritize quality time spent with friends and family over a fast-paced lifestyle.
In addition to these cultural insights, it is interesting to note that Iceland does not observe daylight saving time. This means that the time in Iceland remains the same throughout the year, without any adjustments for seasonal changes.
Exercises[edit | edit source]
Now that we have learned how to tell time in Icelandic, let's practice what we have learned through some exercises.
Exercise 1: Translate the following times[edit | edit source]
Translate the following times into Icelandic:
- 8:15 AM
- 6:45 PM
- 11:30 AM
- 2:10 PM
Solution:
| Icelandic | English |
|---|---|
| Klukkan átta og fimmtán | 8:15 AM |
| Klukkan sex og fjörutíu og fimmtán | 6:45 PM |
| Klukkan ellefu og þrjátíu | 11:30 AM |
| Klukkan tvö og tíu | 2:10 PM |
Exercise 2: Answer the following questions[edit | edit source]
Answer the following questions in Icelandic:
1. Hvað er klukkan? 2. Hvað er klukkan núna? 3. Hvað er klukkan á morgun?
Solution: 1. Klukkan er hálf fjögur. 2. Klukkan er tíu mínútur yfir tvö. 3. Klukkan er hálf tíu.
Conclusion[edit | edit source]
Congratulations! You have successfully learned how to tell time in Icelandic. By mastering the vocabulary and phrases related to time, as well as understanding the cultural insights into timekeeping in Iceland, you are well on your way to becoming a fluent Icelandic speaker. Keep practicing and exploring the fascinating world of the Icelandic language!
Videos[edit | edit source]
Icelandic Lesson #32: What time is it? - Telling time in Icelandic ...[edit | edit source]
Sources[edit | edit source]
Other Lessons[edit | edit source]
- Introducing Yourself
- Information about origins
- Fruits and Vegetables
- General Home
- Common words and Greetings
- Express Surprise
- Seasons and Months
- asking for help
- Geography
- Holiday Wishes Phrases
| ◀️ Numbers 1-20 — Previous Lesson | Next Lesson — Regular Verbs ▶️ |