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A2Nouns, adjectives and pronouns

Adjectives with definite nouns

Form an adjective phrase describing an identifiable item.

Bokmål · nb-NO
GRAMMATIKK · BOKMÅL

Adjectives with definite nouns

A definite adjective–noun phrase normally uses den, det or de, the definite adjective form and a definite noun: den nye bilen. The usual adjective ending is -e, with exceptions such as lille.

The rule, step by step

  1. Choose den for masculine and feminine, det for neuter, and de for plural in this construction.
  2. Use a definite adjective and noun: det store rommet, unlike et stort rom, which introduces an unspecified room.
  3. Learn the exception liten: den lille bilen, det lille huset, de små barna. Possessive constructions have additional patterns.

Sentence pattern

den / det / de + adjective + definite noun

Compare forms and usage
BokmålMeaning or use
en ny bil → den nye bilenIndefinite to definite
et stort rom → det store rommetNeuter
små barn → de små barnaPlural

Everyday examples

Example 1

Den nye bilen er blå.

The new car is blue.

Example 2

Det store huset er gammelt.

The big house is old.

Example 3

De små barna leker.

The small children are playing.

Example 4

Jeg liker den lille hagen.

I like the small garden.

A common error or a difference in meaning

Form to review

Det stor huset er gammelt.

Correct form for the intended meaning

Det store huset er gammelt.

After det and with the definite noun huset, use store.

Put the rule into practice

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Personal review progress on this device. It does not complete a reading lesson or award XP.

VELG

Choose the form that fits the rule and meaning explained in this lesson.

FYLL INN

Complete the gap using the appropriate form of the given word.

Given word: stor

Det _____ huset er nytt.

SETT I REKKEFØLGE

Rebuild the example, starting with “Den”: The new car is blue.

…

Continue with the same subject

Indefinite articles A1Comparisons A2Definite nouns A1Adjective agreement A1

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