An Introduction to Qualitative Adjectives in Turkish Grammar

Qualitative adjectives play a significant role in Turkish grammar as they serve to provide descriptive information about nouns. These adjectives convey attributes such as size, color, shape, and taste, enriching the semantic context with meaningful details.

Usage of Qualitative Adjectives in Sentences

In Turkish sentences, qualitative adjectives generally come before the noun they modify, without requiring a linking verb. Additionally, these adjectives agree with the noun in terms of definiteness. For example:

Yeşil elma (Green apple) – Here, the qualitative adjective “yeşil” (green) comes before the noun “elma” (apple).

Specific Rules Governing Qualitative Adjectives

Turkish grammar consists of rules that dictate the application and usage of qualitative adjectives. Understanding these rules helps ensure that sentences convey clear, accurate information.

1. Position of qualitative adjectives: The adjective must precede the modified noun, but if there is a numeral or a demonstrative pronoun, the order must be numeral/demonstrative pronoun, adjective, and then the noun.

Example: Beş güzel kırmızı gül (Five beautiful red roses)

2. Agreement in definiteness: Adjectives agree in definiteness with the nouns they modify. If the noun is definite, the adjective must also indicate definite reference.

Example: Büyük ev (The big house) / Büyük bir ev (A big house)

3. Repeating adjectives to emphasize their meaning: If an adjective is critical to the meaning of the sentence, it can be repeated before nouns.

Example: Uzun uzun yollar (very long roads)

A List of Common Qualitative Adjectives in Turkish

In order to expand one’s knowledge of Turkish grammar, it is essential to become familiar with a wide variety of qualitative adjectives.

Color adjectives:

• Kırmızı (Red)
• Mavi (Blue)
• Sarı (Yellow)
• Yeşil (Green)

Size adjectives:

• Büyük (Big)
• Küçük (Small)
• Uzun (Long)
• Kısa (Short)

Shape adjectives:

• Yuvarlak (Round)
• Kare (Square)
• Üçgen (Triangular)

Taste adjectives:

• Tatlı (Sweet)
• Ekşi (Sour)
• Tuzlu (Salty)
• Acı (Bitter)

Conclusion

Qualitative adjectives are the foundation of Turkish grammar, providing a comprehensive understanding of the language. Accurately using these adjectives aids in the crafting of descriptive and informative sentences, helping to communicate the intended message effectively.