Learning a new language is like opening a window to a new world. It’s filled with unique expressions, vocabulary, and nuances that can make it both challenging and rewarding. When learning Latvian, two verbs you will undoubtedly come across are izvēlēties (to choose) and aizmirst (to forget). Understanding these verbs and their usage can significantly enhance your fluency in Latvian.

Izvēlēties

The verb izvēlēties means “to choose” or “to select.” It is a fundamental verb used in various contexts, from making decisions to selecting preferences.

Izvēlēties – to choose, to select.
Es vēlos izvēlēties šo grāmatu.
(I want to choose this book.)

Choosing is a daily activity, whether you’re picking out clothes, deciding on a meal, or making life-altering decisions. Therefore, knowing how to use izvēlēties correctly is crucial for effective communication in Latvian.

Conjugation of Izvēlēties

The verb izvēlēties is a reflexive verb, which means it takes different forms depending on the subject. Here is its conjugation in the present tense:

– Es izvēlos (I choose)
Es izvēlos palikt mājās.
(I choose to stay at home.)

– Tu izvēlies (You choose)
Tu izvēlies pareizo atbildi.
(You choose the correct answer.)

– Viņš/viņa izvēlas (He/she chooses)
Viņš izvēlas jaunu auto.
(He chooses a new car.)

– Mēs izvēlamies (We choose)
Mēs izvēlamies šo restorānu.
(We choose this restaurant.)

– Jūs izvēlaties (You choose – plural/formal)
Jūs izvēlaties labāko ceļu.
(You choose the best way.)

– Viņi/viņas izvēlas (They choose)
Viņi izvēlas ceļojumu uz Itāliju.
(They choose a trip to Italy.)

Usage of Izvēlēties

Izvēlēties can be used in various contexts, making it a versatile verb. Here are some common scenarios:

1. **Daily Choices**:
Es izvēlos dzert tēju, nevis kafiju.
(I choose to drink tea instead of coffee.)

2. **Preferences**:
Viņa izvēlas klasisko mūziku.
(She chooses classical music.)

3. **Important Decisions**:
Mēs izvēlamies pārcelties uz citu pilsētu.
(We choose to move to another city.)

4. **Voting and Elections**:
Viņi izvēlas jaunu prezidentu.
(They choose a new president.)

Aizmirst

The verb aizmirst means “to forget.” It is equally important in daily communication, whether you’re talking about forgetting an appointment, a piece of information, or even someone’s name.

Aizmirst – to forget.
Es bieži aizmirstu savus atslēgas.
(I often forget my keys.)

Forgetting is a common human experience, and knowing how to express this in Latvian can help you navigate conversations more effectively.

Conjugation of Aizmirst

The verb aizmirst is a regular verb, and here is its conjugation in the present tense:

– Es aizmirstu (I forget)
Es aizmirstu viņa vārdu.
(I forget his name.)

– Tu aizmirsti (You forget)
Tu aizmirsti par tikšanos.
(You forget about the meeting.)

– Viņš/viņa aizmirst (He/she forgets)
Viņa aizmirst savu somu.
(She forgets her bag.)

– Mēs aizmirstam (We forget)
Mēs aizmirstam par termiņu.
(We forget about the deadline.)

– Jūs aizmirstat (You forget – plural/formal)
Jūs aizmirstat par svarīgo uzdevumu.
(You forget about the important task.)

– Viņi/viņas aizmirst (They forget)
Viņi aizmirst visu, ko mācījās.
(They forget everything they learned.)

Usage of Aizmirst

Aizmirst can be used in various contexts, from simple everyday forgetfulness to more significant lapses in memory. Here are some examples:

1. **Everyday Forgetfulness**:
Es aizmirstu izslēgt gaismu.
(I forget to turn off the light.)

2. **Appointments and Meetings**:
Viņš aizmirst par mūsu tikšanos.
(He forgets about our meeting.)

3. **Personal Belongings**:
Viņa aizmirst savu telefonu mājās.
(She forgets her phone at home.)

4. **Information**:
Mēs aizmirstam svarīgus faktus.
(We forget important facts.)

Common Expressions with Izvēlēties and Aizmirst

Both verbs are often used in idiomatic expressions and phrases that can enrich your vocabulary and understanding of Latvian.

Izvēlēties par labu – to choose in favor of.
Viņi izvēlas par labu mieram.
(They choose in favor of peace.)

Izvēlēties starp – to choose between.
Man jāizvēlas starp diviem piedāvājumiem.
(I have to choose between two offers.)

Aizmirst kā roku – to forget completely (literally: “to forget like a hand”).
Viņš aizmirst kā roku par veco draugu.
(He completely forgets about the old friend.)

Aizmirst par sevi – to forget about oneself.
Viņa bieži aizmirst par sevi, rūpējoties par citiem.
(She often forgets about herself while caring for others.)

Practice and Application

To master the use of izvēlēties and aizmirst, it’s essential to practice them in different contexts. Here are some exercises to help you:

1. **Fill in the Blanks**:
– Es ________ šo filmu. (I choose this movie.)
– Viņa bieži ________ savas brilles. (She often forgets her glasses.)
– Mēs ________ ceļojumu uz Grieķiju. (We choose a trip to Greece.)
– Tu ________ savu dzimšanas dienu? (Do you forget your birthday?)

2. **Translation Practice**:
– I choose to study Latvian.
– He forgets his homework every day.
– They choose to stay home.
– She forgets important dates.

3. **Speaking Practice**:
– Describe a time when you had to izvēlēties between two important options.
– Share a funny or embarrassing story about something you aizmirsi.

Conclusion

Understanding the verbs izvēlēties and aizmirst and their correct usage is crucial for effective communication in Latvian. These verbs are not only common in everyday conversations but also vital in expressing choices and forgetfulness. By practicing their conjugation and applying them in various contexts, you can enhance your fluency and confidence in speaking Latvian.

Remember, language learning is a journey, and every new word or phrase you learn brings you closer to mastering the language. So, keep practicing, stay curious, and don’t forget to enjoy the process!