Navigating the intricacies of a new language is always a challenge, and Armenian is no exception. One area that often confuses learners is the use of possessives, specifically the distinction between the two forms of “their” in Armenian: նրանց and նրանց. While they might appear identical in writing, their usage and context differ significantly. This article aims to clarify these differences and provide practical examples to help you master possessives in Armenian.
Understanding Possessives
In Armenian, possessives are used to indicate ownership or relation. The possessive form “their” translates to նրանց in Armenian, but it’s essential to understand the context to use it correctly.
Նրանց as a Possessive Pronoun
Նրանց is used as a possessive pronoun to indicate ownership. When you use նրանց, you are referring to something that belongs to “them.”
նրանց – Their (possessive pronoun)
Սա նրանց տունն է։
This is their house.
In this example, նրանց indicates that the house belongs to them. This form is straightforward as it directly translates to “their” in English.
Նրանց as an Object Pronoun
Interestingly, նրանց also functions as an object pronoun, meaning “them.” The dual role of this word can be perplexing for learners.
նրանց – Them (object pronoun)
Ես տեսա նրանց։
I saw them.
Here, նրանց is not indicating possession but rather is the object of the verb “saw.” This dual usage is where learners often get confused.
Contextual Clues
Understanding the context in which նրանց is used is crucial. The sentence structure and accompanying words will guide you in determining whether նրանց is being used as a possessive pronoun or an object pronoun.
Possessive Pronoun Context
In sentences where նրանց is followed by a noun, it usually functions as a possessive pronoun.
նրանց – Their (possessive pronoun)
Նրանց երեխաները դպրոց են գնում։
Their children go to school.
Here, նրանց is followed by the noun “children,” indicating possession.
Object Pronoun Context
When նրանց follows a verb directly, it is used as an object pronoun.
նրանց – Them (object pronoun)
Ես կարդացի նրանց նամակը։
I read their letter.
In this sentence, նրանց is used after the verb “read,” indicating that they are the object of the action.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
A common mistake learners make is confusing the context and thus misinterpreting the meaning of նրանց. Let’s look at some examples to clarify.
Example 1
Incorrect: Ես խոսեցի նրանց։
Correct: Ես խոսեցի նրանց հետ։
I spoke with them.
In the incorrect sentence, նրանց is used without a preposition, making the sentence ambiguous. Adding “with” (հետ) clarifies that նրանց is the object pronoun “them.”
Example 2
Incorrect: Սա նրանց։
Correct: Սա նրանց տունն է։
This is their house.
The incorrect sentence lacks a noun following նրանց, making it unclear. Adding “house” (տունն) clarifies that նրանց is the possessive pronoun “their.”
Practice Makes Perfect
To master the use of նրանց, practice is essential. Try creating your own sentences using both the possessive and object pronoun forms of նրանց. Here are some practice exercises to get you started:
Exercise 1
Translate the following sentences into Armenian:
1. Their car is red.
2. I gave them the book.
3. Their friends are nice.
4. She called them yesterday.
Answers:
1. Նրանց մեքենան կարմիր է։
2. Ես տվեցի նրանց գիրքը։
3. Նրանց ընկերները լավ են։
4. Նա երեկ զանգեց նրանց։
Exercise 2
Identify whether նրանց is used as a possessive pronoun or an object pronoun in the following sentences:
1. Ես տեսա նրանց այգին։
2. Նա այցելեց նրանց։
3. Նրանց խոհանոցը շատ գեղեցիկ է։
4. Մենք հրավիրեցինք նրանց։
Answers:
1. Possessive pronoun
2. Object pronoun
3. Possessive pronoun
4. Object pronoun
Conclusion
Understanding the nuances of նրանց in Armenian requires attention to context and practice. By distinguishing between its use as a possessive pronoun and an object pronoun, you can enhance your comprehension and communication skills in Armenian. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep practicing and soon, the use of նրանց will become second nature.
Happy learning!
