Understanding Prepositions of Time in Nepali Grammar

Overview of Nepali Prepositions

Nepali language, spoken primarily in Nepal, holds a unique position among the Indo-Aryan languages due to its rich grammatical features and diverse vocabulary. One such essential aspect of Nepali grammar is the use of prepositions, especially prepositions of time. Prepositions in Nepali are crucial for conveying the relationships between words in a sentence, particularly concerning time elements.

Classification of Prepositions of Time

It is vital to understand the three types of prepositions of time in Nepali grammar to construct sentences that deliver the required meaning accurately.

Past Time Prepositions
These prepositions indicate a prior point or timeframe regarding the subject of the sentence. The most common ones include अघि (before), पहिले (earlier), and बितेको (ago).

Example:
– उनले एक घण्टा अघि जाने हो (He left an hour before)

Present Time Prepositions
Prepositions such as मा (at), समय (during), and कन्छा (around) fall under the category of present time prepositions. They help describe events that occur at the present moment or ongoing actions.

Example:
– म आफ्नो काममा व्यस्त छु (I am busy with my work)

Future Time Prepositions
These prepositions denote events occurring in the future and typically encompass words like पछि (after), बाटोमा (on the way), and समयअन्तर (hereafter).

Example:
– हामी पर्सी भेटौंला (We will meet tomorrow)

Rules and Usage of Prepositions of Time in Nepali Grammar

To master the use of prepositions of time in Nepali, one must adhere to specific rules and guidelines.

1. Position of Prepositions in Sentences
Prepositions usually come before the noun or pronoun related to the time element in the sentence. However, there are instances where a preposition can precede a verb, generally in colloquial speech.

Example:
– उनले शनिबारबाट काम सुरु गर्ने हो (He will start working from Saturday)

2. Usage of Prepositions with Verbs of Motion
Certain verbs, such as गए (went), आइ (came), and बसे (sat), may have prepositions of time accompanying them. Adhering to the correct usage for each verb is essential for reducing ambiguity in the sentences.

Example:
– उनले बिहानपाल्टा पार्कमा व्यायाम गर्ने गर्छन् (They exercise in the park every morning)

3. Inclusive and Exclusive Prepositions of Time
Some prepositions of time are inclusive, meaning they convey the inclusion of the time element in the sentence.

Example:
– मेरा आफन्त तिम्रोहरुका लागि तयार पर्छन् (My relatives will be prepared for yours)

On the other hand, exclusive prepositions limit the specified time element.

Example:
– म अफिसमा गएर होला (I went to the office)

Conclusion

Mastering prepositions of time in Nepali grammar proves invaluable for precise and effective communication. Building a robust understanding of the classification, rules, and appropriate usage of these prepositions will surely enrich one’s linguistic prowess in the Nepali language. Practice and exposure to the Nepali language will assist in achieving proficiency in the use of prepositions of time.