samsögnin

Samsögnin is an Icelandic term that translates to "the concurrence" or "the agreement." It refers to a phenomenon in Icelandic grammar where certain words agree in form with each other based on grammatical case, gender, and number. This agreement is particularly noticeable in the declension of adjectives and possessive pronouns when they modify nouns.

For example, if a noun is in the masculine singular accusative case, any adjectives or possessive pronouns describing it must also take the masculine singular accusative form. This system ensures grammatical consistency throughout a sentence. While it can add complexity for learners of Icelandic, samsögnin is a fundamental aspect of the language's structure, contributing to its precision and flow.

The concept of samsögnin is not unique to Icelandic; similar agreement systems exist in many Indo-European languages, though the specific rules and extent of agreement may vary. Understanding samsögnin is crucial for accurate reading, writing, and speaking of Icelandic, as incorrect agreement can lead to grammatical errors and affect the clarity of communication.