Questions & Answers about Metu la ŝraŭbon en la bremsblokon.
What kind of verb form is metu?
Metu is the -u verb form, which Esperanto uses for commands, requests, instructions, and similar ideas.
So:
- meti = the basic verb
- metu = put! / place!
In a sentence like this, metu is basically telling someone to do something. The subject is usually understood as you, so Esperanto often does not need to say vi.
- Metu la ŝraŭbon... = Put the screw...
- Vi metu la ŝraŭbon... = also possible, but usually less natural unless you want emphasis
Why does ŝraŭbon end in -n?
The -n marks the direct object.
Here, the screw is the thing being put, so ŝraŭbo becomes ŝraŭbon.
Compare:
- La ŝraŭbo estas sur la tablo. = The screw is on the table.
- Metu la ŝraŭbon sur la tablon. = Put the screw onto the table.
In Esperanto, this accusative -n is very common and is one of the first endings learners need to get used to.
Why does bremsblokon also have -n after en?