Learning Turkish can be a rewarding experience, but like any language, it comes with its own set of challenges. One of the intriguing aspects of Turkish grammar is the word “kadar”. This seemingly simple word can carry a variety of meanings and uses, making it a powerful tool for expressing different ideas and concepts. In this article, we will delve deep into the various ways “kadar” can be used in sentences, its meanings, and how to use it correctly.
Basic Meaning of “Kadar”
At its core, the word “kadar” in Turkish translates to “as much as” or “as many as” in English. It is used to indicate a degree or extent of something. The word “kadar” is quite versatile and can be used in different contexts to convey various meanings.
Comparisons
One of the most common uses of “kadar” is in making comparisons. For instance:
– Senin kadar akıllı değilim. (I am not as smart as you.)
– Bu kitap o kadar ilginç değil. (This book is not as interesting as that one.)
In these examples, “kadar” serves to compare the subject with another entity in terms of a certain quality (e.g., intelligence, interest).
Expressing Extent
“Kadar” can also be used to express the extent or degree of something. For example:
– Bu iş o kadar zor değil. (This task is not that difficult.)
– O kadar çok çalıştı ki, çok yorgun düştü. (He worked so much that he became very tired.)
In these cases, “kadar” helps to quantify the extent of the difficulty or the amount of work done.
Using “Kadar” with Numbers and Quantities
“Kadar” can be used to express quantities, especially when talking about numbers or amounts. This is particularly useful in everyday conversations involving measurements or quantities.
With Numbers
When used with numbers, “kadar” can mean “up to” or “as many as”:
– Üç kadar elma aldım. (I bought up to three apples.)
– Yirmi kadar öğrenci geldi. (As many as twenty students came.)
Here, “kadar” indicates the maximum number or quantity.
With Uncountable Nouns
“Kadar” can also be used with uncountable nouns to express an extent:
– Biraz tuz kadar. (Up to a little bit of salt.)
– O kadar su yeter. (That much water is enough.)
In these examples, “kadar” helps specify the amount of an uncountable noun.
Temporal Use of “Kadar”
“Kadar” can also be used in a temporal sense, indicating time. In this context, it can mean “until” or “by the time.”
Until
When used to mean “until,” “kadar” helps to set a time limit:
– Saat üçe kadar bekledim. (I waited until three o’clock.)
– Akşama kadar çalışacağım. (I will work until evening.)
In these sentences, “kadar” specifies the time up to which an action continues.
By the Time
“Kadar” can also convey the meaning of “by the time”:
– Sen gelene kadar işim bitmiş olacak. (By the time you come, my work will be finished.)
– Film başlayana kadar burada olacağız. (We will be here by the time the movie starts.)
In these examples, “kadar” indicates a point in time by which something will occur.
Idiomatic Uses of “Kadar”
Like many words in any language, “kadar” has idiomatic uses that may not translate directly but are commonly used in conversational Turkish.
As Big as a House
– Ev kadar büyük. (As big as a house.)
This expression uses “kadar” to make a hyperbolic comparison, emphasizing the large size of something.
To the Extent of
– Ölümüne kadar sevdi. (He loved to the extent of dying for it.)
In this idiomatic use, “kadar” conveys the extreme extent of an emotion or action.
Using “Kadar” in Negative Sentences
“Kadar” is also frequently used in negative sentences to downplay the degree or extent of something.
Not That Much
– O kadar zor değil. (It’s not that difficult.)
– Bu kadar yeter. (This much is enough.)
In these examples, “kadar” is used to minimize the extent or degree of difficulty or sufficiency.
Common Phrases with “Kadar”
There are several common phrases and expressions in Turkish that use “kadar.” Knowing these can help you sound more fluent and natural in your conversations.
Ne Kadar
One of the most common phrases is “ne kadar,” which means “how much” or “how many”:
– Bu ne kadar? (How much is this?)
– Ne kadar zaman kaldı? (How much time is left?)
In these questions, “ne kadar” is used to inquire about the quantity or extent of something.
Bu Kadar
Another common phrase is “bu kadar,” meaning “that’s all” or “this much”:
– Bu kadar yeter. (This much is enough.)
– Hepsi bu kadar mı? (Is that all?)
In these sentences, “bu kadar” indicates completeness or sufficiency.
Advanced Uses of “Kadar”
As you become more proficient in Turkish, you’ll encounter more advanced uses of “kadar” in literature, news, and formal contexts.
Expressing Tolerance or Capacity
“Kadar” can be used to express tolerance or capacity:
– Sabır kadar büyük bir erdem yoktur. (There is no virtue as great as patience.)
In this sentence, “kadar” is used to compare virtues, highlighting the greatness of patience.
Conditional Sentences
In conditional sentences, “kadar” can be used to set conditions or limits:
– Elinden geleni yapana kadar hiçbir şey bitmiş sayılmaz. (Nothing is considered finished until you have done your best.)
Here, “kadar” sets a condition for considering something complete.
Conclusion
Understanding and using “kadar” in Turkish can significantly enhance your ability to express comparisons, quantities, time, and more. This versatile word is an essential part of Turkish grammar and is used in a wide range of contexts, from everyday conversation to advanced literature. By mastering the different uses of “kadar,” you can add depth and nuance to your Turkish language skills, making your communication more effective and natural. So, the next time you hear or read “kadar,” you’ll have a better grasp of its meaning and how to use it correctly in your sentences.
As you continue your journey in learning Turkish, remember that practice makes perfect. Try to incorporate “kadar” into your daily conversations and written exercises. The more you use it, the more comfortable you will become with its various meanings and applications. Happy learning!
