Understanding Preposition Combinations in Nepali Grammar

Introduction to Nepali Prepositions

Prepositions play a crucial role in constructing sentences in any language, and Nepali is no exception. These words help establish relationships between nouns, pronouns, and other elements in a sentence. In the Nepali language, prepositions are known as “सम्बन्धि संज्ञा” (Sambandhi Sangya). This article will discuss the common preposition combinations in Nepali grammar, detailing their usage and providing examples for better comprehension.

Common Preposition Combinations in Nepali

1. संग/सँग (Sanga): With

The preposition संग is used to express the meaning of “with” in English. It demonstrates a relationship between two or more entities or actions.

Example: मेरो सँग आउनुहोस्‌ (Mero sanga aunu hos) – Please come with me.

2. लागि (Lagi): For

Used to show purpose or reason, लागि translates to “for” in English.

Example: नेपाली कला लागि प्रदर्शनी (Nepali Kala Lagi Pradarshani) – Exhibition for Nepali art.

3. को लागि (Ko Lagi): For the sake of

This combination denotes the purpose or reasoning associated with a specific individual or object.

Example: स्वदेशको लागि समर्पण (Swadesh ko lagi samarpan) – Dedication for the sake of the homeland.

4. बाट (Bat): From, through, by, via

बाट is a versatile preposition that can convey multiple meanings, such as “from,” “through,” “by,” or “via.”

Example: पोखरा बाट काठमाडौं (Pokhara bat Kathmandu) – Kathmandu via Pokhara.

5. मा (Ma): In, at, on

Expressing the state or location of an object or entity, मा is the Nepali equivalent of “in,” “at,” and “on” in English.

Example: काठमाडौंमा होटल (Kathmandu ma hotel) – A hotel in Kathmandu.

Understanding Compound Prepositions

Nepali grammar adopts compound prepositions to add depth and context to sentences. By combining basic prepositions, the language can communicate more complex ideas and relationships.

1. बाहिर (Bahira): Outside of

Formed by combining बाट (from) and आहिर (outside), this preposition means “outside of.”

Example: घरको बाहिर खेलौन (Ghar ko bahira khelun) – Playing outside of the house.

2. अगाडि (Agadi): In front of

Used to describe the position of an object, person, or place, अगाडि translates to “in front of” in English.

Example: घरको अगाडि बगैँचा (Ghar ko agadi bagaicha) – A garden in front of the house.

3. पछाडि (Pachadi): Behind

This preposition denotes the position of an object, person, or place behind something.

Example: घरको पछाडि कम्पोउण्ड (Ghar ko pachadi compound) – A compound behind the house.

Wrapping Up

This article covered the crucial preposition combinations of Nepali grammar, showcasing their usage and providing examples. A mastery of these prepositions is fundamental to constructing grammatically correct sentences in Nepali. As with any language, practice is essential for refining your understanding of these concepts.