When learning Turkish, one of the essential components to master is how to express comparisons, particularly when indicating equality between two entities. This is a fundamental aspect of the language, as it allows for more nuanced and precise communication. In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of expressing equality in comparisons in Turkish grammar. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, understanding these structures will undoubtedly enhance your fluency and comprehension.
Basic Structure of Equality Comparisons
In Turkish, the concept of equality in comparisons is predominantly expressed using the word “kadar” which translates to “as much as” or “as many as.” The structure follows a simple and consistent pattern:
[ text{Subject} + text{adjective/adverb} + text{kadar} + text{comparable entity} ]
For example:
– “O, senin kadar hızlı.” (He is as fast as you.)
– “Bu, o kadar güzel.” (This is as beautiful as that.)
Here, “kadar” is the key element that bridges the comparison between the two entities, allowing you to articulate that one is equal to the other in a specific attribute.
Using Adjectives in Equality Comparisons
When using adjectives, the structure remains straightforward. The adjective comes before “kadar,” followed by the entity being compared.
Consider the following examples:
– “Ali, Ayşe kadar çalışkan.” (Ali is as hardworking as Ayşe.)
– “Bu elbise, o elbise kadar pahalı.” (This dress is as expensive as that dress.)
In these sentences, “çalışkan” (hardworking) and “pahalı” (expensive) are adjectives that describe the subjects “Ali” and “Bu elbise” (this dress), respectively. The use of “kadar” establishes the equality between the two entities being compared.
Using Adverbs in Equality Comparisons
Adverbs can also be used in equality comparisons to describe the manner in which an action is performed. The structure is similar to that with adjectives.
Examples include:
– “O, benim kadar hızlı koşuyor.” (He runs as fast as I do.)
– “Bu çocuk, abisi kadar güzel şarkı söylüyor.” (This child sings as beautifully as his brother.)
In these examples, “hızlı” (fast) and “güzel” (beautifully) are adverbs that modify the verbs “koşuyor” (runs) and “şarkı söylüyor” (sings), respectively. The use of “kadar” again bridges the comparison.
Expressing Quantity in Equality Comparisons
When comparing quantities, “kadar” can also be used to express that two amounts are equal. This is particularly useful when discussing numbers or amounts.
For instance:
– “Senin kadar elma yedim.” (I ate as many apples as you did.)
– “Onun kadar para harcadım.” (I spent as much money as he did.)
Here, “elma” (apples) and “para” (money) are quantities being compared. The use of “kadar” ensures that the quantities are understood to be equal.
Negative Equality Comparisons
Expressing negative equality in Turkish involves a slight modification. Instead of “kadar,” the phrase “olduğu kadar” is often used, which means “as much as it is” or “to the extent that it is.”
For example:
– “O, senin olduğu kadar hızlı değil.” (He is not as fast as you are.)
– “Bu, o kadar güzel değil.” (This is not as beautiful as that.)
In these examples, the negative form “değil” (not) is used in conjunction with “olduğu kadar” to indicate that the subject does not reach the level of the entity it is being compared to.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When learning to express equality in comparisons in Turkish, there are a few common pitfalls that learners should be aware of:
1. **Misplacing “kadar”**: Ensure that “kadar” follows the adjective or adverb directly and precedes the entity being compared.
– Incorrect: “O, kadar hızlı senin.” (He, as fast you.)
– Correct: “O, senin kadar hızlı.” (He is as fast as you.)
2. **Using the wrong adjective or adverb**: Make sure the adjective or adverb accurately describes the attribute being compared.
– Incorrect: “Bu elbise, o elbise kadar pahalıdır.” (This dress is as expensive as that dress is.)
– Correct: “Bu elbise, o elbise kadar pahalı.” (This dress is as expensive as that dress.)
3. **Forgetting to use “değil” in negative sentences**: Always include the negative form “değil” when expressing negative equality.
– Incorrect: “O, senin olduğu kadar hızlı.” (He is as fast as you are.)
– Correct: “O, senin olduğu kadar hızlı değil.” (He is not as fast as you are.)
Advanced Structures and Variations
For more advanced learners, understanding the nuances and variations of equality comparisons can be beneficial. Here are a few additional structures and expressions:
Using “gibi” for Similes
While “kadar” is used for equality, “gibi” (like, as) is used to make similes, which are also a form of comparison but often more figurative.
Examples:
– “O, bir aslan gibi güçlü.” (He is strong like a lion.)
– “Bu, pamuk gibi yumuşak.” (This is soft like cotton.)
In these sentences, “gibi” creates a comparison that is more metaphorical rather than expressing exact equality.
Combining “kadar” with “gibi”
In some contexts, “kadar” and “gibi” can be combined for emphasis, particularly in poetic or literary Turkish.
For example:
– “Senin kadar güzel biri gibi gördüm.” (I saw someone as beautiful as you.)
– “Onun kadar cesur gibi biri yok.” (There is no one as brave as him.)
This combination can add a layer of depth to the comparison, making it more expressive.
Using “olduğunca” for Extent
“Olduğunca” (as much as possible) is another variation that expresses the extent to which something is done.
Examples:
– “Elimden geldiğince çalıştım.” (I worked as much as I could.)
– “Onun kadar olduğunca yardım ettim.” (I helped as much as him.)
In these sentences, “olduğunca” emphasizes the effort or extent to which an action is performed.
Practical Exercises
To solidify your understanding of expressing equality in comparisons in Turkish, consider the following exercises:
1. **Translate the following sentences into Turkish**:
– She is as smart as her brother.
– This cake is as delicious as that one.
– I worked as hard as you.
2. **Identify and correct the mistakes in the following sentences**:
– O, kadar hızlı senin.
– Bu kitap, o kitap kadar pahalıdır.
– O, senin olduğu kadar hızlı.
3. **Create your own sentences using “kadar” with both adjectives and adverbs**:
– Write three sentences using adjectives.
– Write three sentences using adverbs.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of expressing equality in comparisons in Turkish is a valuable skill that will enhance your ability to communicate more precisely and effectively. By understanding the basic structure, common mistakes, and advanced variations, you can confidently use “kadar” and related expressions in your conversations and writing. Practice regularly, and soon you’ll find that making comparisons in Turkish becomes second nature. Happy learning!
