Understanding Complex Sentences and Subordinate Clauses in Norwegian

What Are Complex Sentences in Norwegian?

Complex sentences in Norwegian, much like in English, consist of an independent clause and at least one dependent clause. These sentences help in expressing more intricate ideas by connecting different thoughts together.

Dependent and Independent Clauses

In Norwegian, an independent clause can stand alone as a sentence, while a dependent clause, or subordinate clause, cannot. A dependent clause functions to add additional information to the main clause.

Common Subordinating Conjunctions in Norwegian

Subordinate clauses in Norwegian are often introduced by subordinating conjunctions. These conjunctions help link the dependent clause to the main sentence, providing context, time, reason, condition, and more.

• at (that)
• fordi (because)
• når (when)
• hvis (if)
• mens (while)

Building Complex Sentences

To build complex sentences in Norwegian, place the dependent clause after or before the main clause. Importantly, the verb in the dependent clause takes the final position in that clause.

Examples

Practice Creating Complex Sentences

Try creating your own complex sentences using the structure you've learned. Start with simple clauses and use subordinating conjunctions to combine them creatively.