anlega

Anlega is an Icelandic adverb used as an intensifier. It expresses that something is quite or considerably the case, or that a statement is true to a notable degree. In English, it can be rendered as "quite," "considerably," "really," or "indeed," depending on the context. It commonly modifies adjectives, adverbs, or past participles to add emphasis.

In everyday Icelandic, anlega often appears in informal or semi-formal speech and writing. It provides a softer degree of emphasis than stronger intensifiers and can help convey nuance without asserting an absolute degree. For example, it can be used with statements about experiences, conditions, or assessments, such as describing a situation as anlega gaman or anlega erfitt.

Examples include: "Það var anlega gaman." (That was quite fun.) and "Verkefnið var anlega erfitt." (The task was quite difficult.) The word can contribute to a conversational tone and is one of several common Icelandic intensifiers. In more formal prose, speakers might choose alternatives such as mjótt, mjög, or nokkuð depending on the desired degree and register.

Etymology and regional variation are not typically noted in basic dictionaries, but anlega is widely recognized as part of standard Icelandic usage. It is generally understood across dialects and remains a stable option for adding emphasis in everyday language.