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B1 verb 10 min read

anbefale

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips anbefale in 30 Seconds
Explanation anbefale in your Level:
At the A1 level, learners are just beginning to grasp basic Norwegian. They might encounter 'anbefale' in very simple contexts, perhaps hearing it in a short, clear sentence like 'Jeg anbefaler denne boken' (I recommend this book). The focus is on recognizing the word and its very basic meaning of suggesting something positive. Understanding the grammatical structure or nuances is not expected at this stage. They might associate it with positive feelings or things you like.
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A2 learners can understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance (e.g., very basic personal and family information, shopping, local geography, employment). They would likely understand 'anbefale' in straightforward contexts, such as 'Kan du anbefale en restaurant?' (Can you recommend a restaurant?). They might start to recognize its use with direct objects and perhaps the basic structure of recommending something to someone. The distinction between recommending and simply suggesting might still be blurry.
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B1 learners can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc. They can deal with most situations likely to arise whilst travelling in an area where the language is spoken. 'Anbefale' is firmly within their grasp. They can use it to express their own recommendations, understand recommendations from others, and grasp the difference between 'anbefale' and 'foreslå'. They will be comfortable using it in everyday conversations about movies, books, places, and products, and understand its use with infinitive clauses like 'anbefale noen å gjøre noe'.
B2 learners can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in their field of specialization. They can interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party. At this level, 'anbefale' is used confidently. Learners will understand its subtle differences from words like 'råde' and 'foreslå' and can use it in a variety of contexts, including slightly more formal ones, and appreciate the nuances of strong vs. mild recommendations.
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C1 learners can understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognize implicit meaning. They can express themselves fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions. 'Anbefale' is a word they use naturally and effectively. They can employ it in sophisticated ways, perhaps in written reviews or formal presentations, and understand its full range of connotations and appropriate contexts. They are aware of its cultural implications and can use it to build rapport.
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C2 learners have a level of mastery comparable to a highly articulate native speaker. They can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read. They can summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation. For C2 learners, 'anbefale' is an intuitive part of their vocabulary, used with precision and a deep understanding of its idiomatic and cultural weight. They can differentiate its usage in highly specialized or nuanced contexts with absolute confidence.
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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

anbefale in 30 Seconds

  • Anbefale means to recommend something.
  • Use it when you think something is good.
  • Commonly used for books, movies, restaurants.
  • Can be used with 'til' (to) to specify the recipient.

The Norwegian verb 'anbefale' is a fundamental word used when you want to suggest or endorse something to another person. It signifies that you have a positive opinion about something and wish for others to experience it, try it, or consider it. Think of it as giving a good reference or a personal suggestion.

Core Meaning
To suggest something as good or worthy of consideration.
Common Scenarios
You might use 'anbefale' when talking about books, movies, restaurants, travel destinations, products, or even people for a job. It's a versatile verb used in everyday conversations, reviews, and advice-giving.
Nuance
While it implies a positive endorsement, the strength of the recommendation can vary. Sometimes it's a casual 'you should try this,' and other times it's a more formal endorsement of quality or suitability.

Jeg vil anbefale denne boken til alle som liker spennende krimhistorier.

I want to recommend this book to everyone who likes exciting crime stories.

The act of recommending is a social behavior that fosters trust and shared experiences. In Norwegian culture, as in many others, a genuine recommendation from a friend or acquaintance carries significant weight. It's about sharing something you found valuable and hoping the other person will too. This verb is essential for navigating social interactions where advice and personal opinions are exchanged, making it a high-frequency word for learners aiming for fluency. It's more than just saying 'good'; it's actively suggesting someone try or experience something based on your own positive assessment. Imagine being in a Norwegian cafe and your friend asks what coffee to try – 'anbefale' is the word you'd use to suggest their favorite blend. Or perhaps you've just returned from a trip to the fjords and a colleague asks for advice on where to go; you'd 'anbefale' a specific town or scenic route. This verb bridges the gap between personal experience and shared enjoyment, making it a cornerstone of everyday communication.

Usage Contexts
Book reviews, restaurant critiques, travel guides, personal advice, product endorsements, and everyday conversations about preferences.
Emotional Connection
Often carries a positive emotional charge, reflecting satisfaction, enthusiasm, or confidence in the item or service being recommended.

Legen anbefalte meg å ta det med ro.

The doctor recommended me to take it easy.

Mastering 'anbefale' involves understanding its grammatical behavior and common sentence structures. It's a transitive verb, meaning it typically takes a direct object – the thing being recommended. You can also specify to whom you are recommending something, often using the preposition 'til' (to).

Basic Structure
Subject + anbefale + Direct Object
Adding the Recipient
Subject + anbefale + Direct Object + til + Recipient
Using with Infinitives
You can recommend someone to do something. This often involves an infinitive clause: Subject + anbefale + (Recipient) + å + Verb (infinitive).

Jeg anbefaler deg å lese denne boken.

I recommend you to read this book.

The verb 'anbefale' conjugates like most regular Norwegian verbs. Its past tense is 'anbefalte' and the past participle is 'anbefalt'. This means you can easily use it in various tenses to describe past recommendations or ongoing suggestions.

Present Tense Examples
'Vi anbefaler restauranten.' (We recommend the restaurant.)
'Kan du anbefale meg en god film?' (Can you recommend a good movie to me?)
Past Tense Examples
'Han anbefalte oss å prøve den lokale maten.' (He recommended us to try the local food.)
'De hadde anbefalt dette hotellet på nettet.' (They had recommended this hotel online.)
Future/Modal Verb Use
'Jeg vil anbefale deg å bestille billetter på forhånd.' (I will recommend you to book tickets in advance.)

Læreren anbefalte elevene å øve mer på grammatikken.

The teacher recommended the students to practice the grammar more.

Consider the context of who is speaking and to whom. A friend might say, 'Jeg anbefaler deg å prøve den nye kafeen!' (I recommend you try the new cafe!), whereas a professional review might state, 'Vi anbefaler dette produktet for dets holdbarhet.' (We recommend this product for its durability.) The direct object can be a noun (like 'restauranten', 'boken', 'filmen') or an infinitive clause introduced by 'å'. Pay attention to the placement of 'til' when specifying the recipient; it usually comes after the direct object if there is one, or directly after 'anbefale' if there isn't a direct object noun. For instance, 'Han anbefalte en bok til meg' is correct, as is 'Han anbefalte meg en bok' (though the former is often clearer).

You'll encounter 'anbefale' in a wide array of real-life situations in Norway, reflecting its practical importance in daily communication. From casual chats with friends to more formal settings, the word is ubiquitous.

Social Gatherings
At dinner parties, friends will often recommend dishes they've tried or enjoyed. 'Har du smakt den nye pastaretten? Jeg anbefaler den virkelig!' (Have you tasted the new pasta dish? I really recommend it!).
Travel and Tourism
When discussing travel plans, Norwegians often recommend specific places to visit. 'Du må dra til Lofoten! Jeg kan anbefale en fin tur der.' (You must go to Lofoten! I can recommend a nice trip there.)
Consumer Advice
In shops, sales assistants might recommend products. Online reviews are flooded with 'anbefales' (is recommended) or 'anbefales ikke' (is not recommended). 'Denne telefonen anbefales for sin batterilevetid.' (This phone is recommended for its battery life.)
Healthcare and Well-being
Doctors and therapists often use 'anbefale' when suggesting treatments or lifestyle changes. 'Legen anbefalte meg å trene regelmessig.' (The doctor recommended me to exercise regularly.)
Media and Entertainment
When discussing books, films, or series, people frequently share their opinions. 'Har du sett den nye serien på Netflix? Den anbefales sterkt!' (Have you seen the new series on Netflix? It is strongly recommended!).

Denne appen anbefales for studenter som trenger å lære norsk.

This app is recommended for students who need to learn Norwegian.

You'll also hear it in professional contexts, like a colleague recommending a software tool to another, or a librarian recommending a particular author. Even in academic settings, professors might recommend specific readings or research papers. The passive form, 'anbefales', is particularly common in written reviews and official recommendations. For example, a restaurant might have a sign saying 'Dagens rett anbefales!' (Today's special is recommended!). The verb is fundamental to expressing positive opinions and guiding others towards good choices, making it a word you'll constantly encounter once you start actively listening to Norwegian speakers. It's the go-to verb for sharing your positive experiences and insights, whether it's about a hidden gem of a cafe or a life-changing book. Even in more formal settings, like a business meeting, someone might 'anbefale' a particular strategy or approach based on past success.

While 'anbefale' is a straightforward verb, learners can sometimes make a few common errors. Being aware of these pitfalls can help you use the word more accurately and confidently.

Confusing with 'foreslå' (to suggest)
'Foreslå' is more about proposing an idea or a plan, often in a neutral or objective way. 'Anbefale' carries a stronger sense of endorsement and personal positive opinion. For example, you might 'foreslå' to meet at 7 PM, but you would 'anbefale' a specific restaurant because you know it's good.
Incorrect use of 'til'
While 'anbefale til noen' is common, sometimes learners might omit 'til' when it's needed, or use it when it's not. If you are recommending something *to* someone, 'til' is usually required. However, if the recipient is the direct object, 'til' might be omitted, though it's often clearer with it. For instance, 'Jeg anbefaler denne boken til deg' (I recommend this book to you) is clear. 'Jeg anbefaler deg denne boken' is also correct but can be slightly ambiguous without context.
Overuse or Underuse
Some learners might be hesitant to use 'anbefale' at all, sticking to simpler phrases. Others might overuse it, recommending everything without a clear reason. It's important to use it when you genuinely want to endorse something.
Incorrect Verb Conjugation
Like any verb, 'anbefale' needs to be conjugated correctly according to tense. Forgetting to change 'anbefale' to 'anbefalte' in the past tense is a common slip-up.

Mistake: Jeg foreslår deg denne filmen fordi den er bra. Correct: Jeg anbefaler deg denne filmen fordi den er bra.

Suggesting a movie vs. recommending it.

Another common point of confusion can be the use of infinitives. When recommending an action, the structure 'anbefale noen å gjøre noe' is standard. Forgetting the 'å' or using the wrong form of the verb after it can lead to grammatical errors. For instance, saying 'Jeg anbefaler deg gjøre dette' instead of 'Jeg anbefaler deg å gjøre dette' is incorrect. Also, learners might sometimes use 'anbefale' when a simpler verb like 'si' (to say) or 'like' (to like) would suffice, making the recommendation sound stronger than intended. Always consider the nuance: are you simply stating a fact, or are you actively endorsing something?

While 'anbefale' is the primary verb for recommending, Norwegian offers other words and phrases that can convey similar meanings, often with slight differences in nuance or formality. Understanding these alternatives helps you express yourself more precisely.

'Foreslå' (to suggest, to propose)
Usage: Used for proposing an idea, a plan, or an option. It's more neutral than 'anbefale' and doesn't necessarily imply a strong positive endorsement. It's about putting something forward for consideration.
Example: 'Jeg foreslår at vi tar en pause nå.' (I suggest that we take a break now.) vs. 'Jeg anbefaler denne kafeen for god kaffe.' (I recommend this cafe for good coffee.)
'Råde' (to advise)
Usage: This verb is often used when giving advice, especially in situations where there might be risks or important considerations. It can be more serious than 'anbefale'. It's often followed by 'til' or an infinitive clause with 'å'.
Example: 'Legen rådet henne til å hvile.' (The doctor advised her to rest.) This implies more of a medical necessity or strong guidance than a simple recommendation.
'Gi en anbefaling' (to give a recommendation)
Usage: This is a noun phrase that means exactly 'to give a recommendation'. It's used when you want to be more formal or explicit about the act of recommending.
Example: 'Han ga en sterk anbefaling av boken.' (He gave a strong recommendation of the book.)
'Synes' (to think, to find)
Usage: While not a direct synonym, 'å synes' can be used to express a personal opinion that might lead to a recommendation. It's about your personal judgment.
Example: 'Jeg synes denne filmen er veldig bra, du burde se den.' (I think this movie is very good, you should see it.) Here, 'synes' states the opinion, and 'burde se den' acts as the recommendation.

Legen anbefalte medisinen, mens han rådet pasienten til forsiktighet.

The doctor recommended the medicine, while he advised the patient caution.

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"Vi anbefaler en revurdering av den nåværende politiske kursen."

Neutral

"Jeg anbefaler denne kafeen for en god kaffe."

Informal

"Du må prøve den! Anbefales!"

Child friendly

"Denne bamsen er kjempefin! Jeg anbefaler den!"

Fun Fact

The core idea of 'entrusting' or 'commending' something to someone's positive attention is still present in the modern usage of 'anbefale'. When you recommend something, you are essentially entrusting the other person to a potentially positive experience.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /anəbəˈfeːlə/
US /ˌɑːnəbəˈfeɪlə/
The primary stress falls on the second syllable: an-<strong>be</strong>-fa-le.
Rhymes With
befale avtale betale fortale gjenfortale uttale fortelle innkalle
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing the 'ø' sound incorrectly, often as a simple 'o' or 'u'.
  • Placing stress on the wrong syllable, for example, on the first or last syllable.
  • Making the initial 'a' sound too prominent or too short.
  • Not clearly articulating the final 'e' sound, which can sound like a soft 'uh'.
  • Confusing it with similar-sounding words due to the vowel sounds.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

At B1 level, 'anbefale' is a common word in reading materials like reviews, blog posts, and simple articles. Learners should be able to understand its core meaning and most common uses without significant difficulty.

Writing 3/5

Learners at B1 level should be able to use 'anbefale' in their writing to give recommendations, though they might occasionally make grammatical errors with verb conjugation or infinitive clauses.

Speaking 3/5

Speaking with 'anbefale' is natural at B1. Learners can use it in conversations to share their opinions and give advice, though fluency might vary.

Listening 3/5

Listening comprehension of 'anbefale' is generally good at B1, as it's a frequently used word in spoken Norwegian. Its context usually makes its meaning clear.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

god liker vil kan se lese prøve mat bok film

Learn Next

foreslå råde fraråde oppfordre synes burde måtte

Advanced

endorsement advocacy testimonial critique appreciation

Grammar to Know

Infinitive clauses with 'å'

Læreren anbefalte elevene å øve mer. (The teacher recommended the students to practice more.)

Passive voice with 'anbefales'

Denne boken anbefales på det sterkeste. (This book is highly recommended.)

Use of 'til' with recipient

Jeg anbefaler denne restauranten til mine venner. (I recommend this restaurant to my friends.)

Past tense conjugation

I går anbefalte han meg en ny app. (Yesterday he recommended me a new app.)

Using modal verbs with 'anbefale'

Du burde absolutt anbefale den filmen! (You absolutely should recommend that movie!)

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Examples by Level

1

Jeg anbefaler denne isen.

I recommend this ice cream.

Simple present tense, direct object.

2

Bra film. Anbefales!

Good movie. Recommended!

Passive form 'anbefales' used as a standalone endorsement.

3

Denne boken er god. Anbefal den.

This book is good. Recommend it.

Imperative form.

4

Jeg liker denne sangen. Anbefales.

I like this song. Recommended.

Simple statement followed by a recommendation.

5

Prøv denne kaken.

Try this cake.

Implied recommendation through an imperative.

6

God kaffe. Anbefales.

Good coffee. Recommended.

Short, punchy recommendation.

7

Dette spillet er gøy. Anbefal.

This game is fun. Recommend.

Imperative, direct.

8

Jeg anbefaler deg denne sjokoladen.

I recommend this chocolate to you.

Direct object and indirect object with 'deg'.

1

Kan du anbefale en god bok?

Can you recommend a good book?

Question form, direct object.

2

Denne filmen anbefales for barn.

This movie is recommended for children.

Passive voice, specifying the audience.

3

Jeg anbefalte restauranten til vennen min.

I recommended the restaurant to my friend.

Past tense, use of 'til'.

4

Legen anbefalte meg å ta det med ro.

The doctor recommended me to take it easy.

Infinitive clause with 'å'.

5

Vi anbefaler å besøke museet.

We recommend visiting the museum.

Infinitive clause, general recommendation.

6

Dette hotellet anbefales på det sterkeste.

This hotel is highly recommended.

Adverbial phrase 'på det sterkeste' for emphasis.

7

Han anbefalte meg en god kaffe.

He recommended a good coffee to me.

Indirect object 'meg' before the direct object.

8

Du burde prøve denne kaken, den anbefales!

You should try this cake, it's recommended!

Combining a suggestion with a passive recommendation.

1

Jeg kan virkelig anbefale denne boken til alle som liker historie.

I can really recommend this book to everyone who likes history.

Adverb 'virkelig' for emphasis, specifying audience.

2

Læreren anbefalte oss å lese ekstra materiale.

The teacher recommended us to read extra material.

Infinitive clause with 'å', specifying the action.

3

Har du noen tips til restauranter jeg bør prøve i Oslo? Jeg vil gjerne ha en anbefaling.

Do you have any tips for restaurants I should try in Oslo? I would like a recommendation.

Using the noun form 'anbefaling'.

4

Vi ble anbefalt å reise med tog i stedet for bil.

We were recommended to travel by train instead of car.

Passive voice, past participle 'anbefalt'.

5

Denne appen anbefales for studenter som trenger å lære norsk.

This app is recommended for students who need to learn Norwegian.

Passive voice, specifying the target users.

6

Hvilken film anbefaler du for en rolig kveld hjemme?

Which movie do you recommend for a quiet evening at home?

Question asking for a specific recommendation based on context.

7

Han anbefalte meg en god investering.

He recommended a good investment to me.

Recommending a financial opportunity.

8

Jeg anbefaler deg å sjekke ut nettsiden deres for mer informasjon.

I recommend you to check out their website for more information.

Recommending an action involving online resources.

1

Basert på dine preferanser, vil jeg sterkt anbefale deg å utforske Bergen.

Based on your preferences, I would strongly recommend you to explore Bergen.

Formal structure, strong recommendation with adverb 'sterkt'.

2

Kritikerne anbefalte filmen for dens innovative bruk av visuelle effekter.

The critics recommended the movie for its innovative use of visual effects.

Past tense, recommending based on specific qualities.

3

Det ble gitt en formell anbefaling om å endre forretningsstrategien.

A formal recommendation was given to change the business strategy.

Formal noun phrase 'en formell anbefaling'.

4

Jeg ble rådet til å være forsiktig med denne typen avtaler, selv om de virker lukrative.

I was advised to be careful with these types of deals, even though they seem lucrative.

Distinguishing between 'råde' (advise) and 'anbefale'.

5

Vår guide anbefalte en mindre kjent, men fantastisk tursti i fjellene.

Our guide recommended a lesser-known, but fantastic hiking trail in the mountains.

Recommending a hidden gem.

6

Selv om mange liker den, anbefaler jeg personlig en annen tilnærming.

Although many like it, I personally recommend a different approach.

Expressing a personal recommendation that might differ from the majority.

7

Alle i avdelingen anbefalte at vi implementerte den nye programvaren.

Everyone in the department recommended that we implement the new software.

Using 'at' clause with recommendation.

8

Boken har fått mange positive anmeldelser, og jeg kan også anbefale den.

The book has received many positive reviews, and I can also recommend it.

Combining external validation with personal recommendation.

1

Gitt den nåværende markedsutviklingen, anbefaler vi en konservativ investeringsstrategi.

Given the current market development, we recommend a conservative investment strategy.

Formal, strategic recommendation.

2

Foreleseren anbefalte studentene å kritisk vurdere kildene de bruker i sine oppgaver.

The lecturer recommended the students to critically evaluate the sources they use in their assignments.

Recommending a critical approach to academic work.

3

Selv om det er en kontroversiell bok, anbefaler jeg den for dens tankevekkende perspektiv.

Although it is a controversial book, I recommend it for its thought-provoking perspective.

Acknowledging controversy while still recommending.

4

Vi har mottatt en offisiell anbefaling om å innføre strengere sikkerhetsprotokoller.

We have received an official recommendation to introduce stricter security protocols.

Formal, official recommendation.

5

For de som søker en autentisk kulturell opplevelse, anbefales det å bo i en av de mindre landsbyene.

For those seeking an authentic cultural experience, it is recommended to stay in one of the smaller villages.

Impersonal recommendation for a specific type of experience.

6

Han anbefalte meg å ta en prematur beslutning, noe jeg sterkt frarådet.

He recommended me to make a premature decision, which I strongly advised against.

Contrasting a misguided recommendation with a strong piece of advice against it.

7

Anbefalingene fra komiteen legger grunnlaget for fremtidige politiske tiltak.

The committee's recommendations lay the foundation for future political measures.

Noun form 'anbefalingene' in a political context.

8

Jeg kan ikke annet enn å anbefale denne kunstnerens arbeid for dets originalitet og dybde.

I cannot help but recommend this artist's work for its originality and depth.

Strong, emphatic recommendation.

1

I lys av den akkumulerte forskningen, anbefales det å rekalibrere våre diagnostiske verktøy.

In light of the accumulated research, it is recommended to recalibrate our diagnostic tools.

Highly technical and formal recommendation.

2

Han anbefalte en subtil, men avgjørende justering i prosessen, som viste seg å være revolusjonerende.

He recommended a subtle, but crucial adjustment in the process, which proved to be revolutionary.

Recommending a nuanced change with significant impact.

3

Det er verdt å merke seg at den opprinnelige anbefalingen var å utsette prosjektet, en beslutning som senere ble omgjort.

It is worth noting that the original recommendation was to postpone the project, a decision that was later reversed.

Discussing past recommendations and their outcomes.

4

Rapporten inneholder en rekke detaljerte anbefalinger som krever umiddelbar oppfølging.

The report contains a number of detailed recommendations that require immediate follow-up.

Formal report context, multiple detailed recommendations.

5

Selv om vi tidligere har anbefalt en annen kurs, foreligger det nå nye data som tilsier en revurdering.

Although we have previously recommended a different course, new data are now available that suggest a reassessment.

Acknowledging a change in recommendation based on new evidence.

6

Hans argumentasjon for den nye metoden var overbevisende, og jeg kan ikke annet enn å anbefale den til mine kolleger.

His argumentation for the new method was convincing, and I cannot help but recommend it to my colleagues.

Strong, personal endorsement based on compelling reasoning.

7

En nøye gjennomgang av eksisterende litteratur anbefales før man tar endelige beslutninger.

A thorough review of existing literature is recommended before making final decisions.

Formal, procedural recommendation.

8

Det er enighet om at dette er den mest effektive løsningen, og derfor anbefales den universelt.

There is agreement that this is the most effective solution, and therefore it is universally recommended.

Universal recommendation based on consensus.

Common Collocations

anbefale sterkt
anbefale til
anbefale å
anbefales
anbefale en bok
anbefale en film
anbefale en restaurant
gi en anbefaling
anbefale en tur
anbefale en løsning

Common Phrases

Kan du anbefale...?

— This is a polite way to ask for a recommendation. It's very common when you need advice.

Kan du anbefale en god restaurant i nærheten?

Jeg anbefaler...

— This is a direct and common way to give your own recommendation. It shows your personal endorsement.

Jeg anbefaler denne boken, den er fantastisk!

Anbefales!

— A short, punchy way to say 'Recommended!'. Often used in informal reviews or when speaking enthusiastically.

Så du den nye serien? Anbefales!

Anbefales ikke.

— The opposite of 'Anbefales!', meaning 'Not recommended.'. Used to warn others away from something.

Den filmen var kjedelig. Anbefales ikke.

Jeg anbefaler deg å...

— This phrase is used when recommending a specific action for someone to take.

Jeg anbefaler deg å bestille billetter på forhånd.

Det anbefales å...

— An impersonal way to recommend an action, often used in general advice or instructions.

Det anbefales å drikke mye vann.

På det sterkeste anbefalt

— Meaning 'highly recommended' or 'strongly recommended'. This emphasizes the strength of the recommendation.

Denne opplevelsen er på det sterkeste anbefalt.

Anbefaling fra meg

— Literally 'recommendation from me'. A personal touch to your endorsement.

Dette er en anbefaling fra meg – du vil ikke angre!

Ville anbefale

— Would recommend. Used to express a hypothetical or softened recommendation.

Jeg ville anbefalt å dra dit om sommeren.

en anbefaling verdig

— worthy of recommendation. Used to describe something that deserves to be recommended.

Denne oppfinnelsen er en anbefaling verdig.

Often Confused With

anbefale vs foreslå

'Foreslå' is to suggest or propose, often neutrally. 'Anbefale' implies a positive endorsement based on merit or personal liking.

anbefale vs råde

'Råde' means to advise, often with a sense of caution or importance. 'Anbefale' is a more general positive recommendation.

anbefale vs oppfordre

'Oppfordre' means to encourage or urge, which can overlap but is less about endorsing quality and more about motivating action.

Idioms & Expressions

"å anbefale noen til noe"

— This idiom means to recommend someone for a specific role, job, or position. It's about endorsing someone's suitability.

Sjefen anbefalte henne til prosjektleder.

formal
"å anbefale seg selv"

— This idiom means that something is so obviously good or beneficial that it recommends itself, without needing explicit endorsement.

Kvaliteten på dette håndverket anbefaler seg selv.

neutral
"å anbefale en vei"

— Literally 'to recommend a road', but can be used metaphorically to suggest a course of action or a path forward.

Han anbefalte en forsiktig vei fremover.

metaphorical
"å anbefale en personlig favoritt"

— This phrase highlights that the recommendation is based on personal preference and enthusiasm.

Jeg vil gjerne anbefale en personlig favoritt: denne sjokoladekaken!

informal
"å anbefale med lukkede øyne"

— To recommend something with closed eyes, meaning to recommend it wholeheartedly and without hesitation, trusting its quality completely.

Denne boken kan jeg anbefale med lukkede øyne.

emphatic
"å anbefale en gang til"

— To recommend something one more time. This implies that the recommendation is so strong, it needs reiteration.

Jeg anbefalte den filmen i går, men jeg anbefaler den en gang til!

emphatic
"å anbefale en god handel"

— To recommend a good deal or bargain. Often used in commercial contexts.

Butikken anbefalte en god handel på sommerklær.

commercial
"å anbefale seg for"

— To recommend oneself for something. Similar to 'å anbefale noen til noe', but when the person is doing the recommending for themselves.

Han anbefalte seg for stillingen som teamleder.

formal
"å anbefale en god historie"

— To recommend a good story, often implying something engaging and well-told.

Denne romanen anbefaler en god historie.

narrative
"å anbefale en nybegynner"

— To recommend something suitable for a beginner, implying it's easy to learn or use.

Denne oppskriften anbefales for en nybegynner.

instructional

Easily Confused

anbefale vs foreslå

Both words are used when presenting options or ideas.

'Anbefale' is used when you have a positive opinion and want someone to experience something good. 'Foreslå' is more neutral, like proposing an idea or an option without necessarily endorsing its quality. For example, you 'foreslår' a meeting time, but you 'anbefaler' a restaurant you know is delicious.

Jeg foreslår at vi tar en pause. (I suggest we take a break.) vs. Jeg anbefaler denne restauranten. (I recommend this restaurant.)

anbefale vs råde

Both can be used to give guidance.

'Råde' implies giving advice, often with a sense of caution or necessity, like a doctor advising a patient. 'Anbefale' is a more general positive endorsement. You might 'anbefale' a book for pleasure, but you 'råde' someone to be careful in a dangerous situation.

Legen rådet meg til å hvile. (The doctor advised me to rest.) vs. Jeg anbefaler denne boken. (I recommend this book.)

anbefale vs fraråde

It's the direct opposite of 'anbefale'.

'Anbefale' means to recommend something positively. 'Fraråde' means to advise against something, to discourage someone from it. If 'anbefale' is to say 'yes, do this!', then 'fraråde' is to say 'no, don't do this!'.

Jeg anbefaler deg å kjøpe den bilen. (I recommend you buy that car.) vs. Jeg fraråder deg å kjøpe den bilen. (I advise you against buying that car.)

anbefale vs oppfordre

Both can be used to encourage someone to do something.

'Anbefale' focuses on the quality or benefit of what is being recommended. 'Oppfordre' is more about urging or encouraging someone to take an action, often for a broader purpose or out of necessity. You might 'anbefale' a specific product, but you 'oppfordre' people to vote.

Jeg anbefaler denne appen for å lære norsk. (I recommend this app for learning Norwegian.) vs. Myndighetene oppfordrer alle til å vaksinere seg. (The authorities encourage everyone to get vaccinated.)

anbefale vs god

Often used together with 'anbefale'.

'God' is an adjective meaning 'good'. 'Anbefale' is a verb meaning 'to recommend'. You recommend something because you think it is 'god'. You can't use 'god' in place of 'anbefale'.

Dette er en god film. (This is a good movie.) vs. Jeg anbefaler denne filmen. (I recommend this movie.)

Sentence Patterns

A1

[Noun] anbefales!

Kake anbefales!

A2

Kan du anbefale [noun]?

Kan du anbefale en god bok?

B1

Jeg anbefaler [noun] til [person].

Jeg anbefaler denne filmen til deg.

B1

Jeg anbefaler [person] å [verb].

Jeg anbefaler deg å prøve den.

B2

Det anbefales å [verb].

Det anbefales å bestille bord.

B2

[Noun] anbefales sterkt.

Dette hotellet anbefales sterkt.

C1

Vi anbefaler at [clause].

Vi anbefaler at prosjektet blir ferdigstilt.

C1

Basert på [context], anbefaler vi [noun/action].

Basert på resultatene, anbefaler vi en endring.

Word Family

Nouns

anbefaling recommendation (noun)
anbefaler recommender (person who recommends)

Verbs

Adjectives

anbefalt recommended (adjective, past participle)

Related

foreslå to suggest
råde to advise
fraråde to advise against
god good
velge to choose
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How to Use It

frequency

High

Common Mistakes
  • Using 'anbefale' when 'foreslå' is more appropriate. → Jeg foreslår at vi går hjem.

    This mistake happens when learners use 'anbefale' for neutral suggestions. 'Foreslå' is for proposing an idea or option without a strong personal endorsement. 'Anbefale' is for when you genuinely think something is good.

  • Incorrect conjugation in the past tense. → Hun <strong>anbefalte</strong> filmen.

    Learners might forget to change 'anbefale' to 'anbefalte' when talking about past recommendations. Always check the tense of your sentence.

  • Forgetting 'å' before the infinitive verb. → Jeg anbefaler deg <strong>å lese</strong> boken.

    When recommending an action, the structure requires 'å' before the infinitive verb. Omitting it is a common grammatical error.

  • Using 'anbefale' when 'råde' or 'fraråde' would be better. → Legen <strong>rådet</strong> meg til å hvile. (The doctor advised me to rest.)

    This occurs when the context calls for serious advice or caution ('råde'/'fraråde') rather than a general positive recommendation ('anbefale').

  • Incorrect placement of 'til' when specifying the recipient. → Jeg anbefaler denne boken <strong>til</strong> mine venner.

    While sometimes optional or implied, explicitly using 'til' before the recipient often makes the sentence clearer, especially for learners. Incorrectly omitting it can lead to confusion.

Tips

Verb Conjugation

Remember that 'anbefale' is a regular verb. Its present tense is 'anbefaler', past tense is 'anbefalte', and past participle is 'anbefalt'. Make sure to use the correct form depending on the tense of your sentence.

Adding Emphasis

To make your recommendation stronger, use adverbs like 'sterkt' (strongly) or 'virkelig' (really) before the verb or the noun. For example, 'Jeg anbefaler virkelig denne boken.' (I really recommend this book.)

Noun Form

The noun form is 'anbefaling' (recommendation). You can use this to talk about recommendations in general or to give a formal recommendation, e.g., 'Jeg ga ham en god anbefaling.' (I gave him a good recommendation.)

Passive Voice

The passive form 'anbefales' (is recommended) is extremely common in reviews and short notices. You'll see it frequently on signs, in brochures, and online. For instance, 'Dagens rett anbefales!' (Today's special is recommended!).

Vowel Sounds

Pay attention to the vowel sounds, especially the 'ø' in the last syllable. It's a distinct Norwegian sound, similar to the 'i' in 'sir' or the 'u' in 'fur'. Practice saying 'anbefale' clearly to avoid confusion with other words.

Vs. 'Foreslå'

Don't confuse 'anbefale' with 'foreslå' (to suggest). 'Anbefale' implies a positive endorsement, while 'foreslå' is a more neutral proposal of an idea or option.

Recommending Actions

When recommending someone to perform an action, use the structure 'anbefale [person] å [verb]'. For example, 'Jeg anbefaler deg å lese denne artikkelen.' (I recommend you to read this article.)

Related Terms

Familiarize yourself with related terms like 'fraråde' (to advise against) and 'råde' (to advise) to better understand the spectrum of giving guidance and opinions.

Writing Practice

Write short reviews of your favorite things (books, movies, places) using 'anbefale'. This will help you internalize its usage in different contexts.

Cultural Nuance

In Norway, recommendations are often sincere and based on trust. Use 'anbefale' when you genuinely believe something is good, reflecting this cultural value of honesty in sharing opinions.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine you are 'on' a friend's 'plate' (an-befale- plate) and you're recommending the delicious food on it to them. The 'an' sounds like 'on', and 'befale' sounds a bit like 'plate' if you squint your ears. You're recommending this food to your friend!

Visual Association

Picture a chef holding up a golden ticket labeled 'Recommended!' with a big 'A' on it. The chef is smiling, enthusiastically giving you the ticket.

Word Web

Recommend Suggest Advise Endorse Commend Approve Positive opinion Good choice

Challenge

Try recommending three things you like to a friend in Norwegian using 'anbefale' in the next 24 hours. This could be a movie, a song, or a recipe.

Word Origin

The word 'anbefale' comes from Old Norse, combining the prefix 'an-' (meaning 'on' or 'upon') with the verb 'béfala' (meaning 'to entrust' or 'to commend'). The 'an-' prefix here likely intensifies the meaning of the base verb.

Original meaning: Originally, it meant something like 'to commend to someone's care' or 'to entrust to someone'. Over time, the meaning evolved to encompass the modern sense of recommending something positively.

Germanic (North Germanic)

Cultural Context

There are no major cultural sensitivities associated with 'anbefale'. It's a positive and widely used verb. However, as with any recommendation, it's important to be genuine and not over-recommend things you don't truly believe in.

In English-speaking cultures, recommendations can sometimes be more transactional or driven by marketing. While personal recommendations are also valued, the Norwegian approach often emphasizes sincerity and shared experience more strongly.

Norwegian travel guides often feature 'anbefalte' sights and activities. Food critics and bloggers frequently 'anbefaler' specific dishes or restaurants. In everyday conversation, asking 'Hva anbefaler du?' (What do you recommend?) is a very common way to seek advice.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Restaurant and food reviews

  • Jeg anbefaler...
  • Kan du anbefale...?
  • Anbefales!
  • Maten her anbefales.

Book and movie discussions

  • Jeg anbefaler denne boken.
  • Hvilken film anbefaler du?
  • Den er absolutt anbefalt.
  • Jeg ville anbefalt å se den.

Travel advice

  • Jeg anbefaler å besøke...
  • Dette stedet anbefales.
  • Kan du anbefale en god tur?
  • Vi ble anbefalt å dra dit.

Product recommendations

  • Jeg anbefaler dette produktet.
  • Denne telefonen anbefales.
  • Anbefales for nybegynnere.
  • Kvaliteten anbefaler seg selv.

Giving personal advice

  • Jeg anbefaler deg å...
  • Du burde...
  • Det anbefales å...
  • Legen anbefalte meg å...

Conversation Starters

"Hva anbefaler du å se på TV i kveld?"

"Jeg leter etter en ny bok. Har du noen anbefalinger?"

"Vi skal spise ute i morgen. Kan du anbefale en god restaurant?"

"Jeg vurderer å reise til Norge. Hvilke steder anbefaler du?"

"Har du prøvd den nye kafeen nede i gaten? Den anbefales!"

Journal Prompts

Skriv om noe du nylig anbefalte til noen, og hvorfor.

Beskriv et sted eller en opplevelse som ble anbefalt til deg og som du likte.

Tenk på en gang du ble frarådet noe, og om du fulgte rådet.

Lag en liste over tre ting du ville anbefalt til en turist som besøker din by.

Skriv en kort anmeldelse av din favorittfilm og anbefal den til andre.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

The word 'anbefale' comes from Old Norse, combining 'an-' (on/upon) and 'befala' (to entrust/commend). So, literally, it's like 'to commend upon' or 'to entrust to someone's positive regard'. This root meaning helps explain why it carries a sense of endorsement and positive suggestion.

Use 'anbefale' when you have a positive opinion about something and want to suggest it to someone because you believe they will like it or benefit from it. Use 'foreslå' for more neutral suggestions or proposals, like suggesting a time to meet or an idea for a project, without necessarily having a strong personal endorsement.

You can say 'Jeg anbefaler det til deg.' Alternatively, you can often omit 'til deg' if the context is clear, or place 'deg' before the direct object: 'Jeg anbefaler deg det.' However, 'Jeg anbefaler det til deg' is usually the clearest and most common way.

The past tense of 'anbefale' is 'anbefalte'. For example, 'I går anbefalte jeg en ny restaurant.' (Yesterday I recommended a new restaurant.)

Yes, you can use adjectives to describe what you are recommending, like 'Jeg anbefaler en god bok.' (I recommend a good book.) You can also use adverbs to modify the verb itself, like 'Jeg anbefaler sterkt denne filmen.' (I strongly recommend this movie.)

'Anbefales' is the passive form of the verb. It means 'is recommended'. It's very common in written reviews or short endorsements, like 'Denne filmen anbefales!' (This movie is recommended!).

Yes, the noun form is 'anbefaling', which means 'recommendation'. For example, 'Han ga en positiv anbefaling.' (He gave a positive recommendation.)

You use the structure 'anbefale + person + å + verb'. So, 'Jeg anbefaler deg å studere.' (I recommend you to study.)

Yes, you can 'anbefale' a person for a job or role. For example, 'Jeg kan anbefale henne som en dyktig medarbeider.' (I can recommend her as a skilled employee.)

A common mistake is confusing it with 'foreslå' (to suggest) or 'råde' (to advise). 'Anbefale' specifically implies a positive endorsement based on your opinion or experience, whereas 'foreslå' is more neutral and 'råde' implies more serious advice or caution.

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This Word in Other Languages

anbefale Danish
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