umtalsverður

umtalsverður is an Icelandic adjective that translates to significant, considerable, or substantial in English. It is used to describe something that is of noteworthy importance or magnitude, or that has a notable effect. The word can be applied to a wide range of contexts, from describing a significant increase in prices to a considerable amount of effort or a substantial piece of news.

The etymology of umtalsverður can be broken down into its constituent parts. "Um" is a prefix that can mean around, about, or concerning. "Tals" is related to the word "tala," meaning number or count. "Verður" is a suffix indicating something that is or can be. Therefore, umtalsverður literally suggests something that is worth counting or remarking upon, implying its importance or notable quality.

In practical usage, one might encounter umtalsverður in sentences like "umtalsverður munur" (a significant difference), "umtalsverð breyting" (a considerable change), or "umtalsverð áhrif" (substantial effects). It conveys a sense of magnitude or impact that goes beyond the ordinary or trivial. The adjective is commonly used in both formal and informal Icelandic, making it a versatile term in the language.