Meaning
Asking for the definition of a word.
Cultural Background
Norwegians appreciate when learners ask for clarification. It shows you are trying to integrate. The phrase is almost identical ('Vad betyder det?'), reflecting the close linguistic ties. Danes use 'Hvad betyder det?', which is written similarly but pronounced very differently. The cultural approach to asking for definitions is similar; directness is valued.
Silent letters
Remember that the 'h' in 'Hva' and the 't' in 'det' are silent.
Add a noun
You can make it more specific by adding a noun: 'Hva betyr det ordet?'
Meaning
Asking for the definition of a word.
Silent letters
Remember that the 'h' in 'Hva' and the 't' in 'det' are silent.
Add a noun
You can make it more specific by adding a noun: 'Hva betyr det ordet?'
Don't be shy
Norwegians love it when you ask questions. It shows you are interested in their language.
Test Yourself
Fill in the missing word.
Hva _____ det?
'Betyr' is the verb for 'to mean'.
Which is correct?
How do you ask for a definition?
'Hva betyr det?' is the standard phrase for definitions.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'Vi skal ta en øl.' B: '_____?'
The person is asking for clarification on the plan.
Match the situation to the phrase.
You see a word you don't know in a book.
This phrase is for definitions.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesHva _____ det?
'Betyr' is the verb for 'to mean'.
How do you ask for a definition?
'Hva betyr det?' is the standard phrase for definitions.
A: 'Vi skal ta en øl.' B: '_____?'
The person is asking for clarification on the plan.
You see a word you don't know in a book.
This phrase is for definitions.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsNo, it is very polite and shows you are an active learner.
Yes, it is perfectly appropriate in a professional setting.
'Det' means 'that', 'dette' means 'this'.
It is a historical feature of Norwegian pronunciation.
It is better to say 'Hva betyr det ordet?' to be grammatically complete.
Yes, it is standard across all regions.
It is a rounded vowel, similar to the French 'u'.
You can say 'Hva er betydningen av...?'
Yes, you can point at a gesture and ask 'Hva betyr det?'.
You can say 'Kan du forklare det på en annen måte?'
Related Phrases
Hva mener du?
contrastWhat do you mean/What is your opinion?
Hva er det?
similarWhat is that?
Hva skjer?
similarWhat's happening?
Kan du forklare?
builds onCan you explain?
