igjen

Igjen is a common Norwegian adverb meaning “again” or “once more.” It is used to express repetition, a return to a previous state, or the restoration of possession. The word is found in both Bokmål and Nynorsk and is cognate with the Danish and Swedish word igen, which share the same meaning.

In everyday use, ig en typically follows the verb or appears with auxiliary verbs. Examples include Jeg må gjøre det igjen (I must do it again) and Kan jeg få det igjen? (Can I have that back again?). The phrase igjen og igjen is used to emphasize repetition, as in han sa det igjen og igjen (he said it again and again). In some constructions, igjen can also mean remaining or left behind, as in han ble igjen i rommet (he stayed behind in the room).

Etymology traces igjen to the Old Norse language, with cognates appearing in related Scandinavian languages. In contemporary Norwegian, igjen coexists with synonyms such as på ny (anew) and tilbake (back), though igjen has a distinct adverbial sense focused on repetition and return rather than sheer movement or restoration.

See also: igen (Danish, Swedish), på ny, tilbake.

Note: Usage can vary by region and context; dictionaries and grammar guides provide additional examples and nuance.