qëndroj

qëndroj is a common Albanian verb meaning primarily “to stand” physically and also “to stay” or “to remain” in a place or situation. In its literal sense it denotes assuming and maintaining an upright position. In its broader sense it is used for remaining in a location for a period of time, continuing to be in a state, or persisting in a condition or activity. The sense can be both literal and figurative, as in remaining faithful to a plan or staying in a country, depending on context.

Conjugation and forms are part of standard Albanian verb patterns. In the present tense, typical forms are: unë qëndroj, ti qëndron, ai/ajo qëndron; ne qëndrojmë, ju qëndroni, ata qëndrojnë. The imperative forms include qëndro (singular) and qëndroni (plural). The past simple is qëndrova (I stood/stayed), with imperfect form qëndroja (I was standing/ I used to stand). The future is commonly expressed with do të qëndroj or do të qëndrojmë, depending on subject.

Usage notes: qëndroj is versatile in everyday Albanian. It frequently appears with prepositions to specify location or duration, such as qëndroj këtu (I stand here) or qëndroj për një kohë (I stay for a while). The related noun qëndrim (stay, sojourn) derives from the verb and covers the concept of a stay, residency, or a period of remaining in a place. Dialectal variations are generally minor, with the core meanings understood across Gheg and Tosk varieties.

See also: qëndrim, qëndro.