Rëndë

Rëndë is an Albanian adjective meaning heavy in the physical sense and, more broadly, weighty, serious, or burdensome. It describes objects that are hard to lift or carry, as well as abstract burdens, responsibilities, or situations that feel difficult or grave. In figurative use, it can refer to emotions, consequences, or challenges that are difficult to endure.

Grammatical notes: In Albanian, adjectives agree with the noun in gender and number. The base forms are i rëndë (masculine singular) and e rëndë (feminine singular). The plural form is të rëndë for both genders. The comparative form is më i rëndë (heavier or more serious), and the language commonly expresses degree and emphasis through such constructions or through contextual phrasing rather than a single fixed superlative.

Usage examples: Situata është e rëndë (the situation is serious/heavy). Një ngarkesë shumë e rëndë (a very heavy load). Pesha e madhe që mbajti është e rëndë për ta marrë në duar (the large burden she bears is hard to take up). The expressions extend to emotional or moral weight as well, e.g., ngarkesë morale e rëndë.

Origin and distribution: The word is a standard part of Albanian vocabulary and is widely used across Albanian-speaking regions, including Albania, Kosovo, and parts of North Macedonia and Montenegro. Its etymology is generally treated as a native Albanian development, with usage well established in formal and informal registers.