How to Use “IKKE” in Norwegian – Learn Norwegian A1-B1

The word “ikke” is a fundamental component of the Norwegian language. Its basic meaning can be equated to “not” in English, but using it correctly involves understanding its positioning in sentences and its various nuances. Here’s a guide to help you master the use of “ikke” in Norwegian.

 

Basic Negative Statements:

• • English: I am not hungry.
  • Norwegian: Jeg er ikke sulten.

 

Placement in Sentences:

Typically, “ikke” comes after the verb in a sentence:

• • • • Hun kan ikke svømme. (She cannot swim.)

 

In compound verbs, “ikke” usually appears between the auxiliary verb and the main verb:

• • • • Han har ikke spist. (He has not eaten.)

 

With Modal Verbs:

When using modal verbs (like “kan” for “can”, “skal” for “shall”, etc.), “ikke” follows the modal verb:

• • • • • • Du kan ikke komme i morgen. (You cannot come tomorrow.)

 

Questions and “ikke”:

In Norwegian, forming negative questions often involves using “ikke.” The placement and usage of “ikke” in questions can vary based on the type of question and the desired emphasis. Here are some key points to consider:

Basic Positioning:

“ikke” typically follows the subject and verb when forming negative questions.

• Liker du ikke iskrem? (Don’t you like ice cream?)

Inversion in Yes/No Questions:

In yes/no questions where the verb comes before the subject, “ikke” follows the subject.

• Spiser du ikke middag? (Aren’t you eating dinner?)

However, for emphasis or in more colloquial contexts, it’s possible to place “ikke” directly after the verb.
Spiser ikke du middag? (Aren’t YOU eating dinner?)

“Ikke” in WH-Questions:

In questions that begin with question words (e.g., hvor, hva, når, hvem), “ikke” is typically placed after the verb and subject.
Hvorfor liker du ikke pizza? (Why don’t you like pizza?)
Hvem har ikke kommet? (Who has not arrived?)

Responding to Negative Questions:

When answering a negative question with “ikke,” Norwegians will typically answer in a way that directly addresses the negativity.

• Liker du ikke kaffe? (Don’t you like coffee?)
• Response: Jo, det gjør jeg. (Yes, I do.) Here, “jo” is used in response to a negative question, as opposed to a simple “ja” (yes).

 

Double Negatives:

In Norwegian, there are many cases where two negative words can be used in a sentence, and they don’t cancel each other out:

• • • Huset er av ikke ubetydelig verdi. (The house is of high value.) In this context, “ubetydelig verdi” means “not high value,” so by adding “ikke” (not) the literal meaning “The house is not of a no high value.”

 

“Ikke” in Expressions:

• • There are certain set expressions in Norwegian where “ikke” is used:
    • Ikke sant? – Isn’t that so? / Right?
    • Ikke nå! – Not now!

 

Emphasizing with “ikke”:

• • Sometimes, for emphasis, “ikke” can be placed before the verb:
    • Ikke glem boken! (Do not forget the book!)

 

“Ikke” with Adjectives and Adverbs:

• • When used with adjectives or adverbs, “ikke” usually precedes them:
    • Det er ikke vanskelig. (It is not difficult.)
    • Hun løper ikke raskt. (She doesn’t run fast.)

 

In Conclusion:

Mastering “ikke” is essential for speaking and writing Norwegian accurately. While its basic meaning is straightforward, its placement and usage in different contexts can be tricky. Practice, exposure to authentic Norwegian materials, and feedback from native speakers will help solidify your understanding of this vital word.