6 Ways to Say “Yes” in Norwegian | Learn Norwegian A1

Norwegian, with its rich expressions for affirmation, offers various ways to say “yes,” each fitting different contexts. Here are six ways to express agreement or consent in Norwegian, complete with examples for better understanding:

1. Ja – The Standard Yes

“Ja” is the most straightforward and universally used word for “yes” in Norwegian, suitable for both formal and informal settings.

• Example:
  • Question: “Vil du ha kaffe?” (Do you want coffee?)
  • Answer: “Ja, takk.” (Yes, please.)

2. Joda – Yes, Despite Doubt

“Joda” is used to give an affirmative answer, especially when someone expresses doubt or when you’re correcting someone’s mistaken assumption.

• Example:
  • Statement: “Du liker vel ikke denne filmen?” (You don’t like this movie, do you?)
  • Answer: “Joda, den er faktisk ganske bra.” (Yes, it’s actually quite good.)

3. Jo – Yes in Contradiction

“Jo” is used to contradict a negative statement or question, especially when the assumption is incorrect.

• Example:
  • Question: “Du liker ikke kaldt vær, eller?” (You don’t like cold weather, do you?)
  • Response: “Jo, jeg liker faktisk kaldt vær.” (Yes, I actually like cold weather.)

4. Selvfølgelig – Of Course

“Selvfølgelig,” meaning “of course” or “certainly,” is used when the affirmative answer is obvious or to express strong agreement.

• Example:
  • Question: “Kan du hjelpe meg med dette?” (Can you help me with this?)
  • Answer: “Selvfølgelig kan jeg det.” (Of course, I can.)

5. Absolutt – Absolutely

“Absolutt” is a strong affirmative, akin to “absolutely” in English. It’s used to express complete agreement or strong affirmation.

• Example:
  • Statement: “Dette er en god idé, ikke sant?” (This is a good idea, isn’t it?)
  • Response: “Absolutt, jeg er helt enig.” (Absolutely, I completely agree.)

6. Greit – Alright/Okay

“Greit,” translating to “alright” or “okay,” is often used in casual agreement or consent.

• Example:
  • Question: “Kan vi møtes klokka åtte?” (Can we meet at eight?)
  • Answer: “Greit, det passer for meg.” (Alright, that works for me.)

Conclusion

Understanding these different ways to say “yes” in Norwegian can greatly enhance your ability to communicate effectively in various situations. Each expression carries its own nuance, allowing for more precise and engaging conversations in Norwegian.