følgjast

Følgjast is a verb form found in Norwegian dialects and in some Old Norse–influenced texts. It conveys the sense of being followed or accompanied, and is often described as a passive or reflexive variant of the verb følgje/følge (to follow). In dialectal use, følgjast may also capture nuances of going along with someone or participating in what another person is doing.

Etymology and historical context: The form is linked to Old Norse fylgjast, based on fylgja meaning follower or companion. The semantic field centers on attendance, accompaniment, or being in the company of someone. In Norwegian, this lineage is reflected in regional speech and in older literary language, where reflexive or passive inflectional patterns similar to -ast appeared.

Usage and modern status: Today, følgjast is largely archaic or regional in standard Norwegian. It is most often encountered in historical writings, poetry, or linguistic descriptions of dialects. In contemporary, formal Norwegian, speakers typically use følges (present passive) or a periphrastic construction such as blir fulgt av to tolker (is followed by two interpreters), rather than the dialectal følgjast form.

See also: Følge, fylgja, fylgjast, Norwegian dialects, Old Norse linguistics.