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B1 adverb 9 min read

altfor

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips altfor in 30 Seconds
Explanation altfor in your Level:
At the A1 level, the concept of 'too much' is very basic. Learners might encounter simple phrases like 'for mye' (too much) or 'for mange' (too many) in very concrete situations, such as with quantities of objects or food. The focus is on identifying when there is an abundance of something. For example, a child might point to a pile of toys and say 'mye leker' (many toys), and an adult might correct them to 'for mange leker' if the pile is excessively large. The understanding is purely functional: identifying a large quantity that might be problematic or simply noticeable. The word 'altfor' is generally beyond the scope of A1, as it implies a stronger degree of excess and often a negative judgment, which requires a more developed understanding of nuance.
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At the A2 level, learners can begin to grasp the concept of 'too much' in slightly more complex everyday situations. They might start to recognize 'for mye' and 'for mange' in contexts like 'for mye sukker' (too much sugar) or 'for mange folk' (too many people). The idea is still tied to concrete quantities and simple judgments. They might also encounter 'altfor' in very common, almost fixed expressions, but without a deep understanding of its intensifying power. For instance, they might hear 'altfor sent' (too late) and understand it means the time has passed. The focus is on recognizing these phrases as indicators of a limit being reached or exceeded, usually in simple, relatable scenarios. The nuance of 'altfor' as a stronger intensifier than 'for' is starting to emerge but is not yet fully internalized.
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For B1 learners, 'altfor' becomes a more actively used and understood adverb. They can now grasp its core meaning of 'too much' or 'excessively' and understand that it's a stronger intensifier than 'for'. They can use 'altfor' in sentences to express that something is beyond a desired or acceptable limit, often with a mild negative connotation. This includes modifying adjectives ('altfor stor', 'altfor varm') and adverbs ('altfor raskt'). They can understand sentences where 'altfor' is used to describe situations like excessive cost, time, or quantity. They are beginning to appreciate the emotional weight 'altfor' can carry, indicating a level of discomfort or dissatisfaction due to the excess. They can also start to differentiate between 'for' and 'altfor' based on the degree of excess being described.
At the B2 level, learners have a solid understanding of 'altfor' and can use it confidently and accurately. They can distinguish its nuances from other intensifiers and understand its role in expressing degrees of excess. They can use 'altfor' in more complex sentence structures and in a wider range of contexts, including formal discussions where they might comment on excessive bureaucracy or inefficient processes. They understand that 'altfor' implies a deviation from a norm or expectation, and can articulate the consequences of such excess. They are also more aware of the subtle negative judgment that 'altfor' often carries, allowing them to use it to express critique or concern effectively. They can also recognize its use in idiomatic expressions or common collocations.
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C1 learners will have mastered 'altfor' and its subtleties. They will understand its function not just as a simple intensifier but also as a tool for nuanced expression. They can employ 'altfor' to convey sophisticated critiques or observations, perhaps in academic or professional writing. They will understand its use in conveying irony, sarcasm, or a particularly strong sense of dissatisfaction. They can also differentiate its use in various registers, recognizing when it might sound too informal or too strong in a very formal setting, and when it's the perfect word to convey a precise level of complaint or concern. They will also be able to analyze its use in literature or media to understand the author's intent.
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C2 learners will have an intuitive and masterful command of 'altfor'. They will understand its full spectrum of meaning, including its less common or more idiomatic applications. They can use it with absolute precision to convey the exact degree of excess and the associated emotional or judgmental tone. They can also deconstruct its usage in complex texts, understanding how it contributes to the overall message and stylistic effect. Their understanding extends to recognizing subtle variations in meaning based on intonation or context, and they can use it to create specific rhetorical effects in their own speech and writing. They might even be able to explain the cultural connotations associated with expressing excess in Norwegian society.
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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

altfor in 30 Seconds

  • Altfor means 'too much' or 'excessively'.
  • It's an adverb intensifying adjectives/adverbs.
  • Used when something exceeds a limit, often negatively.
  • Example: 'altfor varmt' (too hot).

The Norwegian adverb 'altfor' translates directly to 'too much' or 'excessively' in English. It's used to indicate that something is beyond a desired or acceptable limit, often implying a negative consequence or a feeling of being overwhelmed. You'll hear 'altfor' used in everyday conversations when discussing quantities, durations, or qualities that are perceived as too great.

Usage Context
'Altfor' is an intensifier that precedes adjectives, adverbs, or nouns (often in a more colloquial sense). It's a very common word in Norwegian and is used across various registers, from casual chat to more formal discussions, though its nuance often leans towards expressing a slight complaint or observation about an excess.
Examples of Use
You might say 'Dette er altfor dyrt' (This is too expensive), 'Han jobber altfor mye' (He works too much), or 'Det var altfor sent da vi kom' (It was too late when we arrived). The word emphasizes the degree of 'muchness' or 'excessiveness' in a situation.

Det er altfor mange folk her.

Kaffen er altfor varm til å drikke nå.

Grammatical Role
As an adverb, 'altfor' modifies adjectives and other adverbs. For instance, in 'altfor stor' (too big), 'altfor' modifies the adjective 'stor'. In 'altfor sakte' (too slowly), it modifies the adverb 'sakte'. It can also be used to intensify nouns in a more informal way, like 'altfor mye bråk' (too much noise).

Denne boken er altfor lang.

Understanding 'altfor' is key to grasping expressions of degree and proportion in Norwegian. It helps you to articulate when something has crossed a threshold of acceptability, whether it's a quantity, a quality, or a duration. It's a word that adds expressiveness to your Norwegian, allowing you to convey shades of meaning related to excess.

The adverb 'altfor' is typically placed before the word it modifies, which is usually an adjective or another adverb. This placement is crucial for conveying the intended meaning of excess. When 'altfor' modifies an adjective, it emphasizes that the quality described by the adjective is too pronounced. For example, 'altfor kald' means 'too cold', indicating a level of coldness that is uncomfortable or undesirable.

Modifying Adjectives
When 'altfor' is used with adjectives, it forms common phrases that describe a state or quality that is beyond a reasonable or comfortable level. Consider these examples: 'altfor stor' (too big), 'altfor liten' (too small), 'altfor varm' (too hot), 'altfor kald' (too cold), 'altfor dyr' (too expensive), 'altfor billig' (too cheap), 'altfor tidlig' (too early), 'altfor sent' (too late), 'altfor vanskelig' (too difficult), 'altfor lett' (too easy), 'altfor bra' (too good), 'altfor dårlig' (too bad), 'altfor mye' (too much), 'altfor lite' (too little).

Været er altfor varmt for en tur.

Modifying Adverbs
'Altfor' can also modify adverbs, intensifying the manner or degree of an action. For instance, 'altfor raskt' means 'too quickly', suggesting an action was performed at an excessive speed. Other examples include: 'altfor sakte' (too slowly), 'altfor ofte' (too often), 'altfor sjelden' (too seldom), 'altfor tidlig' (too early - referring to time of action), 'altfor sent' (too late - referring to time of action), 'altfor godt' (too well), 'altfor dårlig' (too poorly).

Han kjørte altfor fort.

Modifying Nouns (Informal)
While primarily an adverb, 'altfor' can sometimes be used informally to intensify nouns, particularly with the quantifier 'mye' (much) or 'mange' (many). For example, 'altfor mye støy' (too much noise) or 'altfor mange mennesker' (too many people). This usage emphasizes an excessive quantity of the noun.

Det var altfor mye snakk.

Mastering the placement of 'altfor' is crucial. It almost always precedes the word it modifies. Pay attention to the context to understand whether it's intensifying an adjective, an adverb, or, less formally, a noun. Practicing with these examples will help you integrate 'altfor' naturally into your Norwegian sentences.

You'll hear 'altfor' in virtually every aspect of Norwegian life where there's a discussion about things being excessive. It's a staple in everyday conversations, often used to express mild frustration, surprise, or simply to state a fact about something being beyond a comfortable or expected level. Think about common scenarios:

Everyday Conversations
Imagine a group of friends discussing plans. Someone might say, 'Vi kan ikke dra dit nå, det er altfor sent' (We can't go there now, it's too late). Or perhaps when talking about food, 'Denne kaken er altfor søt' (This cake is too sweet). In discussions about weather, 'Det er altfor kaldt til å gå ut uten jakke' (It's too cold to go out without a jacket).

Folkemengden var altfor stor.

Media and News
In news reports or discussions about societal issues, 'altfor' is frequently used. For example, a report might state, 'Arbeidsledigheten er altfor høy' (Unemployment is too high), or 'Det er altfor mange biler i sentrum' (There are too many cars in the city center). It helps to quantify problems or concerns.

Forurensningen er altfor ille.

Workplace and Professional Settings
In professional contexts, 'altfor' might be used to express concerns about workload or project scope. 'Prosjektet tar altfor lang tid' (The project is taking too long), or 'Vi har altfor lite ressurser til dette' (We have too few resources for this). It can be a polite way to signal that a situation is not ideal due to excess or deficiency.

Møtet var altfor langt.

Education and Learning
In an educational setting, a student might complain, 'Leksen er altfor vanskelig' (The homework is too difficult), or a teacher might remark, 'Timingen var altfor dårlig' (The timing was too poor). It's a common way to express challenges or difficulties related to degree.

Essentially, anywhere people are expressing opinions, making observations, or discussing quantities and qualities, you are likely to encounter 'altfor'. It's a versatile and frequently used adverb that adds a layer of evaluative meaning to Norwegian speech and writing.

While 'altfor' is a straightforward word, learners can sometimes make mistakes, often related to its placement or confusion with similar-sounding or conceptually related words. Understanding these common pitfalls can help you use 'altfor' more accurately.

Incorrect Placement
The most common mistake is misplacing 'altfor'. As an adverb, it should almost always precede the adjective or adverb it modifies. Placing it after can change the meaning or make the sentence ungrammatical. For example, saying 'stor altfor' instead of 'altfor stor' is incorrect.

Incorrect: Bilen er dyr altfor.

Correct: Bilen er altfor dyr.

Confusion with 'for'
The word 'for' in Norwegian can also mean 'too' in certain contexts, but 'altfor' is a stronger intensifier. Using 'for' when 'altfor' is more appropriate can understate the degree of excess. For instance, 'for mye' (too much) is correct, but 'altfor mye' (far too much) conveys a greater degree of excess. Learners might sometimes use 'for' when they intend to express a significant overage.

Less emphatic: Dette er for dyrt.

More emphatic: Dette er altfor dyrt.

Overuse or Misapplication
Sometimes learners might overuse 'altfor' in situations where a simpler adjective or adverb would suffice, or when the degree of excess isn't that significant. While 'altfor' is common, it's good to remember that not everything needs to be 'too much'. Using it appropriately maintains its impact.

Example of potential overuse: Kaffen er altfor varm (when it's only slightly warm).

Better: Kaffen er varm.

Grammatical Agreement (when modifying nouns)
When used informally with 'mye' or 'mange', ensure you use the correct quantifier. 'Altfor mye' is for uncountable nouns (e.g., 'altfor mye vann'), and 'altfor mange' is for countable nouns (e.g., 'altfor mange stoler').

By being mindful of placement, distinguishing 'altfor' from 'for', and using it judiciously, you can significantly improve your accuracy when incorporating this useful adverb into your Norwegian vocabulary.

While 'altfor' is a very common and useful word for expressing excess, Norwegian offers other ways to convey similar meanings, each with slightly different nuances in intensity and register. Understanding these alternatives can enrich your vocabulary and allow for more precise expression.

'For' (Adverb)
The adverb 'for' is the most direct synonym for 'too' in English. It is less intense than 'altfor' and is used more generally to indicate an excess that might be undesirable but not necessarily extreme. 'Altfor' emphasizes a greater degree of excess.
Comparison:
Altfor: 'Dette er altfor dyrt!' (This is far too expensive! - implies a significant problem).
For: 'Dette er for dyrt.' (This is too expensive. - a more general statement of price being high).
'Svært' / 'Veldig' (Adverbs)
These adverbs mean 'very' or 'extremely'. They indicate a high degree but not necessarily an excess or a negative implication. They are used to intensify positive or neutral qualities.
Comparison:
Altfor: 'Det er altfor kaldt.' (It's too cold. - implies discomfort).
Svært/Veldig: 'Det er veldig kaldt.' (It's very cold. - a statement of temperature, not necessarily negative).
'Mye' / 'Mange' (Quantifiers)
These mean 'much' and 'many' respectively. While 'altfor' can be used with them (altfor mye/mange), 'mye' and 'mange' alone simply indicate a large quantity without the inherent implication of excess that 'altfor' carries.
Comparison:
Altfor mye: 'Det er altfor mye støy her.' (There is too much noise here. - implies it's bothersome).
Mye: 'Det er mye støy her.' (There is a lot of noise here. - a neutral observation of quantity).
'Overdrevent' (Adverb)
This means 'exaggeratedly' or 'excessively'. It's a more formal word and often implies an exaggeration of something that is already present, or an action that is done to an unnecessary degree.
Comparison:
Altfor: 'Han snakker altfor mye om seg selv.' (He talks too much about himself. - common, everyday expression).
Overdrevent: 'Han snakker overdrevent om sine egne prestasjoner.' (He speaks exaggeratedly about his own achievements. - more formal, implies boasting or embellishment).

Choosing the right word depends on the specific nuance you want to convey. 'Altfor' is excellent for everyday expressions of significant excess, while 'for' is more general, and words like 'svært' or 'veldig' express intensity without the negative connotation of excess. 'Overdrevent' is for more formal contexts or specific types of exaggeration.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

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Neutral

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Informal

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Child friendly

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Slang

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Fun Fact

The use of 'alt' as an intensifier in compound words is found in other Germanic languages as well, though the specific combination with 'for' to mean 'too much' is distinctively Norwegian. It highlights how languages evolve by combining existing words to create new nuances of meaning.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˌɑltˈfuːr/
US /ˌɑltˈfuːr/
The primary stress is on the first syllable: ALT-for.
Rhymes With
stor jord ord bord gjorde nord spor for
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing 'for' too much like the English 'for' without a clear Norwegian vowel sound.
  • Not rolling the 'r' in 'for' sufficiently.
  • Incorrect stress, placing it on the second syllable.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Understanding 'altfor' in reading is relatively straightforward once its meaning is grasped. Its placement before adjectives and adverbs is consistent. Recognizing its function to signal excess is key.

Writing 3/5

Using 'altfor' correctly in writing requires attention to placement and choosing it when the meaning of excess is truly intended. Overuse can dilute its impact.

Speaking 3/5

Pronunciation is manageable, and its common usage makes it easy to integrate into spoken Norwegian. The main challenge is ensuring the correct degree of emphasis is conveyed.

Listening 3/5

Recognizing 'altfor' in spoken Norwegian is generally easy due to its distinct pronunciation and high frequency.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

for mye mange stor varm kald dyr sent tidlig

Learn Next

svært veldig litt nok mindre

Advanced

overdrevent uforholdsmessig uønsket tilfredsstillende akkurat passe

Grammar to Know

Adverb placement

'Altfor' is an adverb and typically precedes the adjective or adverb it modifies: 'altfor stor' (too big), 'altfor sakte' (too slowly).

Quantifiers 'mye' and 'mange'

'Altfor mye' is used with uncountable nouns (e.g., 'altfor mye vann'), while 'altfor mange' is used with countable nouns (e.g., 'altfor mange stoler').

Comparison of adjectives

While 'altfor' isn't directly part of adjective comparison, understanding degrees of intensity helps. For example, 'varm' (hot), 'veldig varm' (very hot), 'altfor varm' (too hot).

Use of 'for' vs. 'altfor'

'For' is a general intensifier for 'too', while 'altfor' is stronger, emphasizing a significant excess. 'Dette er for dyrt' (This is too expensive) vs. 'Dette er altfor dyrt!' (This is far too expensive!).

Adverbial modification of verbs

'Altfor' can modify adverbs that describe how an action is performed: 'Han løp altfor fort' (He ran too fast).

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Examples by Level

1

Vannet er for mye.

The water is too much.

'For mye' is used for uncountable nouns.

2

For mange kaker.

Too many cakes.

'For mange' is used for countable nouns.

3

Han spiser for mye.

He eats too much.

Focuses on quantity of food.

4

Det er for sent.

It is too late.

Common phrase for time.

5

For varmt.

Too hot.

Simple adjective use.

6

For kaldt.

Too cold.

Simple adjective use.

7

For langt.

Too far.

Describes distance.

8

For dyrt.

Too expensive.

Describes cost.

1

Vi har for mye å gjøre.

We have too much to do.

'For mye' with an infinitive verb phrase.

2

Det var for mange folk på konserten.

There were too many people at the concert.

Using 'for mange' with a noun.

3

Kaffen er altfor varm.

The coffee is too hot.

Introduction to 'altfor' in a common phrase.

4

Han snakker altfor fort.

He speaks too fast.

'Altfor' modifying an adverb.

5

Dette er altfor dyrt for meg.

This is too expensive for me.

'Altfor' with an adjective and a prepositional phrase.

6

Det ble altfor sent.

It got too late.

Emphasizing lateness with 'altfor'.

7

Hun er altfor liten til å nå hyllen.

She is too small to reach the shelf.

'Altfor' with an adjective indicating inability.

8

Det er altfor mye støy her.

There is too much noise here.

'Altfor mye' with an uncountable noun.

1

Klimaendringene fører til altfor høye temperaturer.

Climate change leads to excessively high temperatures.

'Altfor' modifying an adjective in a more complex sentence.

2

Han jobber altfor mange timer.

He works too many hours.

'Altfor mange' with a countable noun.

3

Denne filmen er altfor lang og kjedelig.

This movie is too long and boring.

Using 'altfor' with multiple adjectives.

4

Vi ankom altfor sent til å rekke toget.

We arrived too late to catch the train.

'Altfor sent' in a clause indicating consequence.

5

Det er altfor lett å bli avhengig av sosiale medier.

It is too easy to become addicted to social media.

'Altfor' modifying an adjective in an impersonal construction.

6

Hun hadde altfor mye bagasje til å bære alene.

She had too much luggage to carry alone.

'Altfor mye' with a noun indicating a problem.

7

Prisen på boliger er altfor høy i mange byer.

The price of housing is too high in many cities.

Expressing a societal issue with 'altfor'.

8

Han reagerte altfor aggressivt på kritikken.

He reacted too aggressively to the criticism.

'Altfor' modifying an adverb of manner.

1

Regjeringens politikk har ført til altfor store sosiale forskjeller.

The government's policy has led to excessively large social inequalities.

Using 'altfor' to describe societal impact.

2

Det er altfor lett å overse de små detaljene når man har dårlig tid.

It is too easy to overlook the small details when one is short on time.

Complex sentence structure with 'altfor'.

3

Han klaget over at møtet var altfor langt og ustrukturert.

He complained that the meeting was too long and unstructured.

Reporting a complaint using 'altfor'.

4

Energiforbruket i industrilandene er altfor høyt i forhold til bærekraftsmålene.

Energy consumption in industrialized countries is too high in relation to sustainability goals.

Connecting 'altfor' to abstract concepts like sustainability.

5

Hun følte seg altfor presset av deadlines.

She felt too pressured by deadlines.

'Altfor' modifying an adjective derived from a participle.

6

Det er altfor mange uløste gåter i denne saken.

There are too many unsolved mysteries in this case.

'Altfor mange' used in a context of mystery or investigation.

7

Han hadde en altfor optimistisk tilnærming til prosjektet.

He had an excessively optimistic approach to the project.

'Altfor' modifying an adjective describing an abstract quality.

8

Informasjonen ble presentert altfor komplisert for det vanlige publikum.

The information was presented too complicatedly for the general public.

'Altfor' modifying an adverb derived from an adjective.

1

Samfunnets økende krav til effektivitet kan føre til altfor store personlige belastninger.

Society's increasing demands for efficiency can lead to excessive personal burdens.

Sophisticated use of 'altfor' in a societal critique.

2

Det er en bekymringsfull tendens at unge mennesker utsettes for altfor mye kommersiell påvirkning på nett.

It is a worrying tendency that young people are exposed to too much commercial influence online.

'Altfor mye' in a context of media and influence.

3

Hans analyse var altfor forenklet, og overså dermed viktige nyanser i problemstillingen.

His analysis was too simplified, thereby overlooking important nuances in the issue.

'Altfor' modifying an adjective, with a consequential clause.

4

Den politiske debatten har blitt altfor polarisert, noe som hindrer konstruktiv dialog.

The political debate has become too polarized, which hinders constructive dialogue.

'Altfor' describing a state of polarization.

5

Det er altfor lett å falle i fellen med å tro at man har full kontroll.

It is too easy to fall into the trap of believing one has full control.

Figurative language with 'altfor'.

6

Kulturarven vår er altfor verdifull til å bli neglisjert av kortsiktige økonomiske interesser.

Our cultural heritage is too valuable to be neglected by short-term economic interests.

'Altfor' used to emphasize value and prevent neglect.

7

Reglene ble tolket altfor strengt, noe som skapte unødvendig byråkrati.

The rules were interpreted too strictly, creating unnecessary bureaucracy.

'Altfor' modifying an adverb of manner, with a result.

8

Han ble kritisert for å ha en altfor naiv tilnærming til det internasjonale markedet.

He was criticized for having an excessively naive approach to the international market.

Describing an abstract approach with 'altfor'.

1

Den akkumulerte effekten av altfor mange små kompromisser kan føre til et system som er uholdbart på lang sikt.

The accumulated effect of too many small compromises can lead to a system that is unsustainable in the long term.

Complex causal relationship involving 'altfor mange'.

2

I en tid preget av informasjonsflom, er det altfor lett å miste evnen til kritisk kildevurdering.

In an era characterized by an information flood, it is too easy to lose the ability for critical source evaluation.

Figurative language and abstract concepts with 'altfor'.

3

Hans siste verk ble ansett som altfor avantgarde av den etablerte kunstkritikken.

His latest work was considered too avant-garde by the established art criticism.

'Altfor' used in a nuanced assessment of artistic style.

4

Den utbredte bruken av 'altfor' i dagligtale kan noen ganger redusere ordets slagkraft.

The widespread use of 'altfor' in everyday speech can sometimes reduce the word's impact.

Meta-commentary on the usage of 'altfor'.

5

Han ble anklaget for å ha en altfor selektiv hukommelse når det gjaldt å huske sine feil.

He was accused of having an excessively selective memory when it came to remembering his mistakes.

Psychological concept described with 'altfor'.

6

Det er en farlig balansegang mellom å være tilstrekkelig oppmerksom og altfor inngripende.

It is a dangerous balancing act between being sufficiently attentive and too intrusive.

Expressing a delicate balance using 'altfor'.

7

Kritikken mot prosjektet var altfor overfladisk til å gi reell innsikt.

The criticism of the project was too superficial to provide real insight.

'Altfor' modifying an adjective, with a negation of consequence.

8

Den nye lovgivningen har blitt tolket altfor bokstavelig, noe som skaper uheldige unntak.

The new legislation has been interpreted too literally, creating unfortunate exceptions.

'Altfor' modifying an adverb, with a negative outcome.

Common Collocations

altfor mye
altfor mange
altfor varmt
altfor kaldt
altfor dyrt
altfor sent
altfor tidlig
altfor vanskelig
altfor lett
altfor bra

Common Phrases

altfor mye

— Too much (for uncountable nouns). Indicates an excessive quantity that is undesirable.

Det er altfor mye støy her.

altfor mange

— Too many (for countable nouns). Indicates an excessive number that is undesirable.

Det var altfor mange folk på konserten.

altfor varmt

— Too hot. Indicates a temperature that is uncomfortably high.

Vannet i dusjen var altfor varmt.

altfor kaldt

— Too cold. Indicates a temperature that is uncomfortably low.

Det er altfor kaldt til å gå ut uten genser.

altfor dyrt

— Too expensive. Indicates a price that is considered excessively high.

Den jakken er altfor dyr for meg.

altfor sent

— Too late. Indicates that a point in time has passed, making an action impossible or undesirable.

Vi kom altfor sent til møtet.

altfor tidlig

— Too early. Indicates a point in time that is before the desired or appropriate moment.

Han våknet altfor tidlig i dag.

altfor vanskelig

— Too difficult. Indicates a task or problem that is excessively hard to manage.

Denne matteoppgaven er altfor vanskelig.

altfor lett

— Too easy. Indicates something that requires very little effort, sometimes implying it's too simple or not challenging enough.

Denne testen var altfor lett.

altfor bra til å være sant

— Too good to be true. Used when something seems so advantageous or positive that it's hard to believe it's real.

Tilbudet på flybilletter var altfor bra til å være sant.

Often Confused With

altfor vs for

'For' can also mean 'too', but 'altfor' is a stronger intensifier. Use 'altfor' when you want to emphasize a significant degree of excess.

altfor vs svært/veldig

These mean 'very' and indicate a high degree but not necessarily excess or a negative implication, unlike 'altfor'.

altfor vs mye/mange

These simply mean 'much/many'. 'Altfor' is used with them to indicate 'too much/many'.

Idioms & Expressions

"å være altfor god"

— To be too good (often implying something is deceptively good, or too good to be true). It can suggest that the positive nature of something might hide a drawback or that it's simply beyond what one expects.

Han virker snill, men jeg tror han er altfor god til å være sann.

Informal
"å ta seg altfor nær"

— To take something too personally or to be overly sensitive about criticism or remarks. It implies an excessive emotional reaction.

Du må ikke ta deg altfor nær av hva hun sa.

Neutral
"å ha altfor lite"

— To have too little. This is the direct opposite of 'altfor mye' and expresses a deficiency that is problematic.

Vi har altfor lite tid til å fullføre prosjektet.

Neutral
"å være altfor mye"

— To be too much (can refer to a person, a situation, or a task). It implies an overwhelming or unbearable quality.

Denne situasjonen er altfor mye for meg akkurat nå.

Informal
"å gå altfor langt"

— To go too far. This idiom refers to exceeding acceptable boundaries, either in behavior, speech, or actions.

Hans kommentarer gikk altfor langt.

Neutral
"altfor mange baller i luften"

— To be juggling too many tasks or responsibilities at once, leading to stress or potential failure.

Jeg har altfor mange baller i luften akkurat nå, jeg kan ikke ta på meg mer.

Informal
"å være altfor forsiktig"

— To be too cautious. This implies that someone is overly hesitant, perhaps missing opportunities due to excessive prudence.

Du må tørre litt mer, du er altfor forsiktig.

Neutral
"å tro man vet altfor mye"

— To think one knows too much, often implying arrogance or overconfidence.

Han tror han vet altfor mye, men han tar feil.

Informal
"å ha altfor store forventninger"

— To have excessively high expectations, which can lead to disappointment.

Ikke ha altfor store forventninger, så blir du ikke skuffet.

Neutral
"å være altfor glad i"

— To be too fond of something, often implying an unhealthy or excessive attachment.

Han er altfor glad i sjokolade.

Informal

Easily Confused

altfor vs for

Both 'for' and 'altfor' can translate to 'too' in English.

'For' is a general intensifier for 'too', indicating an excess that might be undesirable but not necessarily extreme. 'Altfor' is a stronger intensifier, meaning 'far too' or 'excessively', and emphasizes a greater degree of excess, often with a stronger negative connotation. For example, 'This is for expensive' is a general statement, while 'This is altfor expensive!' expresses strong dissatisfaction.

This is for expensive. vs. This is altfor expensive!

altfor vs veldig

Both are adverbs that intensify adjectives or other adverbs.

'Veldig' means 'very' and indicates a high degree of a quality. It doesn't necessarily imply that the quality is excessive or undesirable. 'Altfor' specifically means 'too much' or 'excessively', implying that the degree is beyond a desirable or acceptable limit and often carries a negative judgment. For instance, 'It is very cold' (Det er veldig kaldt) is a statement of temperature, whereas 'It is too cold to go out' (Det er altfor kaldt til å gå ut) implies the coldness is problematic.

Det er veldig kaldt. vs. Det er altfor kaldt.

altfor vs mye

'Altfor' is often used with 'mye' (much) to form 'altfor mye' (too much).

'Mye' simply means 'much' or 'a lot' and indicates a large quantity. 'Altfor mye' specifically means 'too much', implying that the quantity is excessive and undesirable. For example, 'There is much noise' (Det er mye støy) is a neutral observation, while 'There is too much noise' (Det er altfor mye støy) suggests the noise is bothersome or excessive.

Det er mye støy. vs. Det er altfor mye støy.

altfor vs mange

'Altfor' is often used with 'mange' (many) to form 'altfor mange' (too many).

'Mange' means 'many' and indicates a large number of countable items. 'Altfor mange' means 'too many', implying the number is excessive and problematic. For instance, 'There are many people' (Det er mange folk) is a simple statement of quantity, whereas 'There are too many people' (Det er altfor mange folk) suggests overcrowding or an undesirable situation.

Det er mange folk. vs. Det er altfor mange folk.

altfor vs nok

Both relate to quantity or degree.

'Nok' means 'enough' and signifies that a quantity or degree is sufficient and meets requirements. It is the opposite of 'altfor', which means 'too much' or 'excessively'. 'Nok' indicates a balanced state, while 'altfor' indicates an imbalance due to excess. For example, 'I have enough money' (Jeg har nok penger) means the amount is sufficient, whereas 'I have too much money' (Jeg har altfor mye penger) might imply wastefulness or an excessive amount.

Jeg har nok penger. vs. Jeg har altfor mye penger.

Sentence Patterns

A2

Subject + er + altfor + adjective.

Været er altfor kaldt.

A2

Subject + verb + altfor + adverb.

Han snakker altfor fort.

B1

Det er + altfor + adjective + til å + infinitive.

Det er altfor sent til å dra nå.

B1

Subject + har + altfor + mye/mange + noun.

Hun har altfor mye arbeid.

B2

Clause + altfor + adjective/adverb + consequence clause (som/noe som...)

Han jobber altfor mye, noe som gjør ham sliten.

B2

Det er + altfor + adjective + å + infinitive.

Det er altfor vanskelig å forstå.

C1

Subject + verb + altfor + adjective + og + adjective.

Filmen var altfor lang og kjedelig.

C1

Altfor + adjective/adverb + ... (as a subject clause or standalone comment)

Altfor dyrt! Vi kan ikke kjøpe det.

Word Family

Nouns

altfor mye Too much (as a noun phrase, referring to an excessive quantity)
altfor mange Too many (as a noun phrase, referring to an excessive number)

Related

for Too (less intense, often used in similar contexts)
mye Much, a lot
mange Many, a lot
stor Big, large
varm Hot
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How to Use It

frequency

Very High

Common Mistakes
  • Placing 'altfor' after the adjective. → Bilen er altfor dyr.

    As an adverb, 'altfor' should precede the adjective it modifies. Saying 'Bilen er dyr altfor' is grammatically incorrect.

  • Using 'altfor' when 'for' is sufficient. → Det er for sent.

    While 'altfor sent' is also correct and more emphatic, 'for sent' is perfectly acceptable and often sufficient for a general statement of lateness. Overusing 'altfor' can weaken its impact.

  • Confusing 'altfor mye' with 'altfor mange'. → Det er altfor mye vann. / Det er altfor mange flasker.

    'Altfor mye' is used with uncountable nouns (like water), while 'altfor mange' is used with countable nouns (like bottles).

  • Using 'altfor' to mean 'very'. → Været er veldig kaldt.

    If you simply want to state that it is very cold, use 'veldig kaldt'. 'Altfor kaldt' implies the coldness is problematic or excessive.

  • Incorrect pronunciation (stress or 'r' sound). → ALT-for (stress on first syllable, rolled 'r')

    Misplacing the stress or not rolling the 'r' in 'for' can make the word sound unnatural or difficult to understand.

Tips

Placement is Key

Remember that 'altfor' is an adverb and must be placed directly before the adjective or adverb it modifies. Incorrect placement can change the meaning or make the sentence ungrammatical. For example, 'altfor stor' (too big) is correct, not 'stor altfor'.

Altfor vs. For

Distinguish between 'for' (too) and 'altfor' (far too/excessively). 'Altfor' conveys a stronger degree of excess and is often used when there's a noticeable problem or strong dissatisfaction.

Context Matters

While 'altfor' often implies a negative situation, it can sometimes be used for emphasis in overwhelmingly positive scenarios ('altfor bra til å være sant'). Always consider the context to grasp the full nuance.

Expand with Quantifiers

Learn to use 'altfor' with 'mye' (much) and 'mange' (many) to talk about excessive quantities of uncountable and countable nouns, respectively. For instance, 'altfor mye kaffe' (too much coffee) and 'altfor mange feil' (too many mistakes).

Stress and Roll

Pay attention to the stress on the first syllable ('ALT-for') and try to roll your 'r' in the 'for' part for a more authentic Norwegian pronunciation.

Sentence Creation

Actively try to create your own sentences using 'altfor' in different contexts. Describe things that are too hot, too cold, too expensive, too late, or too difficult. This active practice solidifies your understanding.

Listen Actively

When listening to Norwegian, pay attention to instances of 'altfor'. Note what it's modifying and the overall message it conveys. This will help you internalize its usage patterns.

Beyond Literal Meaning

Understand that 'altfor' can sometimes imply a subjective judgment. What one person considers 'altfor' something, another might find acceptable. It's a word that expresses the speaker's perception of excess.

Consider Alternatives

While 'altfor' is useful, explore synonyms like 'for', 'svært', 'veldig', and 'overdrevent' to express different shades of meaning related to intensity and excess.

Avoid Common Errors

Be mindful of common mistakes like incorrect placement or confusing 'altfor' with 'veldig'. Proofread your writing and double-check your spoken sentences for accuracy.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine someone trying to eat an entire buffet ('alt' means all) and saying 'This is too much!' ('for mye'). The 'alt' emphasizes how overwhelmingly much there is.

Visual Association

Picture a scale tipping drastically to one side because there is 'alt' (all) of something on one side, making it 'for' (too) heavy. The scale is overloaded.

Word Web

Excessive Too much Overwhelmed Beyond limit Intensifier Negative connotation Quantity Degree

Challenge

Try to describe five everyday situations where you would use 'altfor' to express that something is too much. For example, 'The bus was altfor full' (too full).

Word Origin

The word 'altfor' is a compound adverb formed from 'alt' (all) and 'for' (too). Historically, 'alt' in this context served as an intensifier, meaning 'entirely' or 'completely', thus emphasizing the degree of 'for' (too). The combination effectively means 'all too' or 'completely too much'.

Original meaning: The original sense was 'entirely too' or 'completely too'.

Germanic (North Germanic)

Cultural Context

While 'altfor' is a common word, its use can imply criticism. When discussing sensitive topics or in formal settings, one might choose slightly softer phrasing if the intention is not to be overtly critical. However, in most everyday contexts, it's a straightforward descriptive term.

In English-speaking cultures, similar phrases like 'far too much', 'excessively', or 'way too...' serve a comparable function. The Norwegian 'altfor' often carries a similar weight and is used in similar everyday scenarios.

The phrase 'altfor sent' (too late) is common in everyday Norwegian, appearing in countless personal anecdotes and media discussions. Discussions about the Norwegian welfare state often involve debates about whether services or taxes are 'altfor' high or 'altfor' low. Norwegian literature and film frequently use 'altfor' to describe characters' flaws, situations, or emotional states, such as 'altfor mye ansvar' (too much responsibility) or 'altfor trist' (too sad).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Discussing prices and costs

  • altfor dyrt
  • altfor billig
  • altfor mye penger

Talking about time

  • altfor sent
  • altfor tidlig
  • altfor lang tid

Describing weather and temperature

  • altfor varmt
  • altfor kaldt
  • altfor vått

Commenting on quantities and amounts

  • altfor mye
  • altfor mange
  • altfor lite

Expressing difficulty or ease

  • altfor vanskelig
  • altfor lett
  • altfor komplisert

Conversation Starters

"Hva synes du er altfor dyrt i Norge?"

"Har du noen gang opplevd at det var altfor sent å gjøre noe?"

"Hvordan takler du når det er altfor varmt ute?"

"Hva er noe du synes det er altfor mye av i samfunnet?"

"Er det noe du synes er altfor lett å glemme?"

Journal Prompts

Beskriv en situasjon der du følte at noe var altfor mye for deg. Hva skjedde, og hvordan reagerte du?

Tenk på en gang du opplevde noe som var altfor bra til å være sant. Var det en positiv eller negativ opplevelse?

Hvilke ting i hverdagen synes du er altfor vanskelige å håndtere?

Skriv om en gang du måtte ta deg altfor nær av noe. Hva var det, og hvordan påvirket det deg?

Nevn tre ting som du mener det er altfor lite av i verden, og tre ting som det er altfor mye av.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

While 'altfor' often carries a negative connotation because it implies something is beyond a desirable limit, it's not always strictly negative. Sometimes it can be used to express surprise or even a positive, though excessive, quality, like in 'Tilbudet var altfor bra til å være sant' (The offer was too good to be true). However, the core meaning is about excess, which is frequently associated with problems.

Primarily, 'altfor' is an adverb modifying adjectives and other adverbs. However, it's very commonly used informally with quantifiers like 'mye' (much) and 'mange' (many) to modify nouns: 'altfor mye støy' (too much noise) and 'altfor mange mennesker' (too many people). Direct modification of nouns without a quantifier is less common and might sound awkward.

'For' is a general adverb meaning 'too', indicating an excess. 'Altfor' is a stronger intensifier, meaning 'far too' or 'excessively'. Think of 'for' as 'too' and 'altfor' as 'way too' or 'all too'. For example, 'This is for expensive' (This is too expensive) is less emphatic than 'This is altfor expensive!' (This is far too expensive!).

As an adverb, 'altfor' is typically placed directly before the adjective or adverb it modifies. For example, 'altfor stor' (too big), 'altfor raskt' (too quickly). In phrases like 'altfor mye/mange', it precedes the quantifier.

No, 'altfor' is an invariant adverb. It does not change its form based on gender, number, or case of the noun it indirectly relates to. Its function is to intensify the word immediately following it.

Yes, though less common, 'altfor' can be used in contexts that are overwhelmingly positive, often with a sense of disbelief or exceptional fortune. For example, 'Han er altfor snill' (He is too kind) might imply he is almost unbelievably kind, or perhaps his kindness is so excessive it's hard to believe. The phrase 'altfor bra til å være sant' (too good to be true) is a classic example.

'Altfor' is a very common word in Norwegian and is used frequently in both spoken and written language across various registers.

Good English equivalents include 'too much', 'excessively', 'far too', 'way too', and 'overly'. The best choice depends on the specific context and the desired level of emphasis.

Generally, 'altfor' modifies adjectives and adverbs. While it can indirectly relate to verbs by modifying adverbs that describe the verb's action (e.g., 'He runs too fast' - 'Han løper altfor fort'), it doesn't directly modify verbs in the same way as some other adverbs.

The core meaning and usage of 'altfor' are consistent across Norwegian dialects. While pronunciation might vary slightly, the grammatical function and semantic meaning remain the same.

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