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Questions & Answers about Ni na nuna godiya.
Why do we see both "Ni" and "na" expressing the idea of "I"?
Ni is the emphatic first-person singular pronoun, which can be used to highlight who is performing the action. Na is also a marker for first-person singular in the completed aspect. Combining them simply places extra emphasis on the speaker, making it clear that I am the one who showed gratitude.
Can I leave out "Ni" and just say "Na nuna godiya"?
Yes, you can. Simply saying Na nuna godiya is acceptable and still means I showed gratitude. However, when you include Ni, you are emphasizing the subject, as if saying I, personally, showed gratitude.
Does "nuna" have other meanings or uses besides showing gratitude?
Yes. Nuna generally means to show or to display in Hausa. You can use it in many contexts, such as nuna hanya (show the way), nuna hotuna (show pictures), etc.
Is "godiya" always used with "nuna," or can I just say "godiya" by itself to express thanks?
You can use godiya by itself in some constructions, like na gode (I thank you), which is a very common way to express gratitude. Using nuna godiya makes it clear you are showing your thanks.
What is the function of the "na" in "Ni na nuna godiya" compared to "Ina nuna godiya"?
In Ni na nuna godiya, the na indicates a completed action (perfect tense), implying I showed gratitude (and it’s done). In Ina nuna godiya, the ina indicates an ongoing or continuous aspect, meaning I am currently showing gratitude.