What language do they speak in Iceland? Icelandic of course!
Icelandic is the official language in Iceland and a language frozen in time and largely unchanged since Vikings arrived in the 12th century. Aside from their native tongue, most Icelanders also speak fluent English, especially the younger population. Still, as you venture further from the capital, Reykjavik, and other larger towns, you might encounter more Icelanders who speak only a little.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Icelandic language.
Some Facts About the Icelandic Language
● Icelandic has hardly changed since the Viking Age.
The Icelandic language is directly derived from Old Norse, a language spoken by the Vikings on their arrival to the country. Icelandic is actually the root of modern-day Scandinavian languages – a testament to how the language has truly remained almost unchanged for over a thousand years. In fact, it’s still possible for Icelanders to read texts that were written in the 9th century, and understand them completely.
● It’s easy to create new words in Icelandic.
Instead of using words from another language to add a new word to the Icelandic dictionary, Icelanders typically create their own using bits from Icelandic.
● The Icelandic alphabet has unique letters.
The Icelandic alphabet has 32 letters, 10 of which don’t belong to the English alphabet. These include the letters á, æ, ð, é, í, ó, ö, þ, ú, and ý. Icelandic does not use the letters c, q, w, or z.
● Grammar is complex.
One of the many reasons why you probably won’t go about learning the Icelandic language in depth any time soon, its grammar is complex. Icelandic grammar is reminiscent of both Romance languages rules (like the subjunctive) with elements that are also similar to Russian and Polish in terms of both nouns and adjectives.
Do Icelanders Speak English?
Yes! In fact, it’s thought that nearly 98% of Icelanders speak at least some English. There’s truly no need to worry about whether or not you’ll be able to communicate while on a trip to Iceland if you’re a fluent or native English speaker. Even better, all Icelandic residents who work in a tourism-related field will almost certainly speak completely fluent English.
- Read more English blogs about things to do in Iceland .
Firefly Car Rental staff all speak great English
Like most Icelanders, the staff at Firefly Iceland Car Rental speak wonderful English and there’s no need to become proficient in the Icelandic language before your trip. They’re not only helpful with finding the perfect rental car for your individual needs but also for providing added tips and tricks to make your adventures in the Land of Fire and Ice extra amazing – without the added stress of a language barrier!
How to say Hello in Icelandic? Simple Icelandic phrases to learn before visiting
Despite the fact that almost all Icelanders speak some level of English, it’s a nice gesture to learn a few Icelandic phrases before your trip – and it’s an added touch that won’t go unnoticed by Icelanders.
Here are a few common phrases to learn.
Hello = Halló
Goodbye = Bless
Thank you = Takk fyrir (or simply, Takk)
Yes = Já
No = Nei
Good Morning = Góðan daginn
Good Evening = Gott kvöld
My name is… = Ég heiti…
Getting to Know Icelandic: It’s More Than Just Words
Icelandic’s Family Tree
Did you know Icelandic is related to some other languages in Europe? It’s part of the North Germanic languages, which means it’s like a distant cousin to languages in Scandinavia and even some other European languages. Pretty cool, right?
Staying True Under Danish Rule
A long time ago, Denmark ruled over Iceland, but guess what? Icelandic didn’t really change much because of it. It’s like the language held onto its own personality, not getting too mixed up with Swedish or Danish.
Icelandic Talks the Same Everywhere
Unlike many places where the way people talk can change a lot from one area to another, in Iceland, the language is pretty much the same wherever you go. This is pretty unique and makes it easier to understand everyone.
Icelandic Sign Language Rocks Too
Here’s something awesome: In Iceland, they don’t just speak with their mouths; they also have an Icelandic Sign Language, which is super important for people who are deaf. It’s another cool way people communicate in Iceland.
Icelandic Words are a Creative Playground
Making up new words in Icelandic is like playing with Legos – you can put different parts together to make something new. This just shows how creative and playful the Icelandic language is.
Icelandic = Iceland’s Heartbeat
Ever heard the phrase “Iceland is Icelandic”? It’s a simple way of saying that the language is a big part of what makes Iceland, well, Iceland. It’s not just about talking; it’s about keeping the country’s unique story and vibe alive.
Icelanders Keeping Our Language Alive
The people who speak Icelandic, whether they’re chilling in Iceland or living somewhere else around the world, are like guardians of this special language. We keep the tradition and cool history of the language going strong.
Conclusion
Overall, Iceland is a country that speaks English widely and it’s very easy to communicate for travelers who do so as well. Learning a few simple Icelandic phrases before your trip is more of a polite gesture than a necessity. Arrive in the country armed with a few “Halló!”s and you’ll be welcomed with open arms.
