Understanding Complex Sentences in Armenian Grammar

In the realm of Armenian grammar, complex sentences hold significant importance as they enable the speaker to express intricate thoughts and ideas. With a rich historical background, the Armenian language has unique characteristics that provide an intriguing context for the study of complex sentences. This article delves into the intricacies of complex sentences in Armenian grammar, including their formation, types, and usage.

Formation of Complex Sentences in the Armenian Language

A complex sentence in Armenian comprises at least two clauses, one of which is independent, while the others are dependent. The dependent clauses function as a single unit within the sentence, providing essential information to support and complete the main idea.

To construct complex sentences in Armenian, you may use various conjunctions, relative pronouns, or adverbs. Some common connectors include երբ (when), եւ (and), որ (that), թե (whether), and միայն (only).

Example of a Complex Sentence in Armenian

As a practical example, consider the following complex sentence:

Ես գիտեմ, որ նա գնում է քաղցրավենիք (Yes gitem, vor na gnum e kagheravenik).

The English translation is: “I know that she is buying desserts.”

In this sentence, “Ես գիտեմ” is the independent clause, and “որ նա գնում է քաղցրավենիք” is the dependent clause, connected with the conjunction որ (that).

Types of Complex Sentences in Armenian Grammar

Armenian complex sentences can be categorized into several types based on their structure and purpose. These types are as follows:

1. Adverbial-Clause Complex Sentences

In these sentences, the dependent clause works as an adverb and answers the questions “when,” “where,” “why,” “how,” or “under what condition.” For example:

Այս շաբաթն էլ չի գնում, երբ գործ ունի (Ays shabatn el ch’i gnum, erb gorc uni).

Translation: “He won’t go this weekend if he has work.”

2. Noun-Clause Complex Sentences

In these sentences, the dependent clause acts as a noun and usually follows verbs like “think,” “believe,” “know,” and “say.” For instance:

Աննա համարում է, որ օրուազերծը պետք է այս շաբաթի ընթացքում տեղի ունենա (Anna hamarum e, vor oruazerts’e petk’e ays shabati ants’k’um teghi unena).

Translation: “Anna thinks that the party should take place this weekend.”

3. Adjective-Clause Complex Sentences

In these sentences, the dependent clause functions as an adjective, describing a noun or pronoun from the main clause. For example:

Ամեն մարդը, որ գնում է հանրաճանաչություն, փորձում է տալ իրենից ամեն ինչ (Amen mard, vor gnum e hanradzanachutyun, pordzum e tal irenits amen inch).

Translation: “Everyone who gets fame tries to give their all.”

The detailed exploration of complex sentences in Armenian grammar reveals the language’s unique structure and versatility. By understanding and mastering Armenian complex sentences, you will be equipped to express complex ideas and engage in meaningful communication within this ancient and captivating language.