Understanding Simple Tenses in Bosnian Grammar
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the simple tenses in Bosnian grammar. Bosnia is a linguistically rich and diverse country. While its grammar may pose challenges to learners, a firm grasp of the simple tenses serves as a strong foundation for mastering the Bosnian language.
Present Simple Tense in Bosnian
The Present Simple Tense in Bosnian, also known as Prošireni sadašnji glagolski oblici, is used to express actions or states happening in the present moment or general truths. It is formed using the base form of the verb, which ends in “-ti”.
There are three main groups of verbs in the Bosnian language, classified according to their endings:
- Group 1: Verbs ending with -ati
- Group 2: Verbs ending with -iti
- Group 3: Verbs ending with -eti/-ći
To conjugate verbs in the Present Simple tense, remove the verb ending -(a/i)ti and add the appropriate verb endings according to the subject pronoun:
| Subject | Group 1 | Group 2 | Group 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ja (I) | -am | -im | -em/-m |
| Ti (You, singular) | -aš | -iš | -eš/-š |
| On/Ona/Ono (He/She/It) | -a | -i | -e/ -/ |
| Mi (We) | -amo | -imo | -emo/-mo |
| Vi (You, plural) | -ate | -ite | -ete/-te |
| Oni/One/Ona (They) | -aju | -iju | -eju/-(j)u |
Past Simple Tense in Bosnian
The Past Simple Tense in Bosnian, or Prošlo svršeno vrijeme, is used to describe actions or states completed in the past. This tense is formed by using the auxiliary verb biti (to be) in its past participle form and the main verb in its past participle form.
The past participle of the auxiliary verb biti is gender-specific and agrees with the subject:
- Masculine: bio
- Feminine: bila
- Neuter: bilo
- Plural: bili
To create the past participle of regular verbs, remove the -(a/i)ti ending and add the following endings according to the gender and number:
- Masculine singular: -o
- Feminine singular: -la
- Neuter singular: -lo
- Plural: -li
Future Simple Tense in Bosnian
The Future Simple Tense in Bosnian, or Buduće vrijeme, is a compound tense used to express actions or states that will happen in the future. It is formed by conjugating the auxiliary verb htjeti (will/want) in the present tense and using the infinitive form of the main verb.
Here is the conjugation of the auxiliary verb htjeti in the present tense:
- Ja ću (I will)
- Ti ćeš (You will, singular)
- On/Ona/Ono će (He/She/It will)
- Mi ćemo (We will)
- Vi ćete (You will, plural)
- Oni/One/Ona će (They will)
In conclusion, a strong understanding of the simple tenses in Bosnian grammar is crucial for language learners. Gaining proficiency in the present, past, and future simple tenses will significantly enhance your ability to communicate effectively in the Bosnian language.
