Function of Relative Adverbs in Bosnian: Connecting Clauses

To enable smooth communication, relative adverbs act as links between two clauses, providing additional context or explaining the relationship between them. Frequently utilized to introduce subordinate clauses, they serve as a bridge between the main and relative clauses, enhancing the expressiveness of the language.

Common Relative Adverbs in Bosnian

One can categorize relative adverbs in Bosnian based on the element they relate to – time, place, or reason. Here is a list of the most commonly used relative adverbs:

• Kako: referring to manner or comparisons, its equivalent in English is “how” or “as.”
• Kad(a): referring to the time at which something happens, its equivalent in English is “when” or “while.”
• Gdje: referring to the location where something occurs, its equivalent in English is “where.”
• Zašto: referring to the reason or cause of an event, its equivalent in English is “why.”

Forming Complex Sentences with Relative Adverbs

To employ relative adverbs to create complex sentences, combine a main clause with a relative clause. The result is a sentence that conveys more intricate thoughts and ideas. Consider these examples:

1. Main clause: On je talentiran.
   Relative clause: Kako svira gitaru, to je nevjerovatno.
   Complex sentence: On je talentiran, kako svira gitaru, to je nevjerovatno.
   Translation: He is talented, how he plays the guitar, it’s unbelievable.
2. Main clause: Čekam te.
   Relative clause: Kad završiš s poslom.
   Complex sentence: Čekam te kad završiš s poslom.
   Translation: I’ll wait for you when you finish work.

Usage of Relative Adverbs in Questions and Answers

Relative adverbs prove to be highly effective in forming both questions and answers in Bosnian. See the following examples:

1. Question: Gdje je tvoja knjiga?
   Answer: Moja knjiga je gdje sam je ostavila.
   Translation: Where is your book? My book is where I left it.
2. Question: Zašto kasniš?
   Answer: Kasnim zato što je bilo puno prometa.
   Translation: Why are you late? I’m late because there was a lot of traffic.

In conclusion, mastering the usage of relative adverbs in Bosnian grammar not only facilitates the creation of more intricate sentences but also enriches one’s communication immensely. Understanding their forms, functions, and applications paves the way towards grasping the full beauty and complexity of the Bosnian language.