Understanding Word Order in Interrogative Sentences

In Marathi, the word order for interrogative sentences is subject-object-verb (SOV), similar to standard sentence structure. The main distinction is the presence of a question word that transforms the sentence into a question. The question word typically comes at the beginning of the sentence, followed by the subject and the object.

Key Question Words in Marathi

Question words are an integral part of interrogative sentences in Marathi grammar, as they help frame queries and gather information. Here are some common question words in Marathi:

• कोण (kon) – Who
• काय (kay) – What
• कुठे (kuthe) – Where
• कधी (kadhi) – When
• कसे (kase) – How
• किती (kiti) – How much / How many

Structuring Interrogative Sentences in Marathi

Interrogative sentences in Marathi can be classified into three primary categories: asking yes or no questions, questions that seek specific information, and questions that seek choice.

Yes or No Questions

To form yes or no questions in Marathi, simply add का (ka) at the end of the sentence. This structure is commonly used in standard questions without needing to change the order of words. Take the following examples:

• तो गेला का? (To gela ka?) – Did he go?
• तुम्ही खाल्ले का? (Tumhi khalle ka?) – Did you eat?

Questions Seeking Specific Information

Inquiring about particular details in Marathi involves using the appropriate question word at the beginning of the sentence. Here are some examples:

• कोण आहे? (Kon ahe?) – Who is he?
• तुमचे नाव काय? (Tumache nav kay?) – What is your name?
• आपण कुठे जात आहात? (Aapan kuthe jaat aahat?) – Where are you going?

Choice Questions

When asking a question that requires the selection of options, use the Marathi word काय (kay), which means «what.» The question word «काय» is placed before the choices presented in the sentence:

• तुम्ही चहा किंवा कॉफी पिऊन जायला हवे? (Tumhi chaha kimva coffee piun jayala have?) – Do you want to drink tea or coffee?

Conclusion

Interrogative sentences in Marathi grammar are vital for establishing effective communication and gathering information. By understanding their various components, such as word order, question words, and sentence structure, speakers can master the art of formulating questions in Marathi, thus enhancing their overall language proficiency.