Understanding Noun Plurals in Armenian

In the Armenian language, the formation of plural nouns is achieved primarily by adding specific suffixes to the noun’s singular form. Two dominant suffixes are used in Eastern and Western Armenian dialects, making it crucial to understand their differences.

Eastern Armenian Plural Suffix

In Eastern Armenian, the suffix -ներ (-ner) is added to the noun’s singular form to indicate plurality. For example:

• գիրք (girk) – book
• գիրքներ (girkner) – books

Western Armenian Plural Suffix

In Western Armenian, the suffix -ք (-k’) is attached to the noun’s singular form to denote plurality. For example:

• գիրք (girk) – book
• գիրքք (girkk’) – books

Pluralization Rules for Different Noun Classes

While the general rule of appending suffixes holds true for most nouns in Armenian, there are specific guidelines for pluralizing certain noun classes. These distinctive rules help further refine the language and ensure grammatical accuracy.

Definite Article

In Armenian, the definite article -ը (-ə) or -ն (-n) can also be used to form plurals. In such cases, the definite article is attached to the plural suffix for clarity. For example:

• գիրքը (girkə) – the book
• գիրքները (girknerə) – the books (Eastern Armenian)
• գիրքքը (girkk’ə) – the books (Western Armenian)

Invariable Nouns

Some Armenian nouns do not alter their form when pluralized, remaining identical in both singular and plural contexts. The intended plurality is then inferred from the sentence itself.

• մարդ (mard) – man / people
• արյուն (aryun) – blood / bloods

Archaic Pluralizations

Armenian grammar occasionally employs archaic pluralizations that deviate from the standard rules. These plurals are formed using different suffixes, such as -օք (-ok’) and -ս,-ւս (-s, -wus).

Plural Forms in Adjectives and Pronouns

Notably, adjectives and pronouns in Armenian grammar also undergo changes to match the plurality of the nouns they modify.

Adjectives

Adjectives in Armenian correspond to the noun’s plurality by incorporating plural suffixes akin to the relevant dialect. For example:

• բարի (bari) – good (singular)
• բարիներ (bariner) – good (plural, Eastern Armenian)
• բարիք (barik’) – good (plural, Western Armenian)

Pronouns

Similar to adjectives, plural pronouns are formed by adding the appropriate plural suffixes.

• նրա (nra) – his, her (singular)
• նրանց (nranc’) – their (plural)

In conclusion, understanding plural forms in Armenian grammar is an indispensable component when learning the language. By recognizing the rules that govern nouns, adjectives, and pronouns’ plurality, one can effectively communicate and improve their mastery of the Armenian language.