Yes, no and the essentials in Norwegian
The small words that carry half of every conversation, and the ones that rescue it. Play the ten Norwegian words against the clock, with a note on how locals really use each one after every answer. All ten are written out below.
All 10 Norwegian phrases in this lesson
- JaYAH
- Yes
- NeiNAY
- No
- Okoh-KAY
- Okay
- Jeg forstår ikkeyay for-STOHR ik-eh
- I don't understand
- Snakker du engelsk?SNAHK-er doo ENG-elsk
- Do you speak English?
- Kan du gjenta det?kahn doo YEN-tah deh
- Can you repeat that?
- Sakte, takkSAHK-teh, tahk
- Slowly, please
- Hva er dette?vah air DET-teh
- What is this?
- Jeg trenger...yay TRENG-er
- I need...
- Kan du hjelpe meg?kahn doo YEL-peh may
- Can you help me?
Standard yes. Norwegians sometimes confirm agreement with a short inhaled sound that resembles "ja." Do not be alarmed if you hear this. It is a genuine and common affirmation.
Direct and clear. Norwegians are comfortable with a simple "nei" and will not find it rude. There is no need to soften it with lengthy explanation in most everyday situations.
The same word used internationally and widely understood. Also written and said as "okei" in informal contexts. Perfectly natural across all age groups.
Essential when the language barrier kicks in. Follow it with "Snakker du engelsk?" (do you speak English?) for the best chance of finding a solution.
Most Norwegians speak excellent English and are happy to switch. English is taught from primary school and used widely in media. You will rarely struggle to find an English speaker.
Norwegians will switch to excellent English almost at once.