Köpek öyle hızlı.

The dog is so fast.

Breakdown of Köpek öyle hızlı.

• olmak: to be
• köpek: the dog
• hızlı: fast
• öyle: so

Questions & Answers about Köpek öyle hızlı.

Why is there no verb like “is” in the sentence Köpek öyle hızlı.?

In Turkish, the present tense form of “to be” is generally omitted in simple descriptive sentences. Instead of saying Köpek öyle hızlıdır, it’s natural and common to leave out the copula, making the sentence succinct without losing meaning.

What does the word öyle mean in this sentence?

Öyle is an adverb that can be translated as “so” or “that way.” In this context, it serves as an intensifier, emphasizing the degree to which the dog is fast.

How does this sentence structure compare to English word order?

In English, the linking verb “is” is required as in “The dog is so fast.” Turkish, however, omits the copula, resulting in a structure that goes directly from the subject (köpek) to the adverb (öyle) and then to the adjective (hızlı). The idea is conveyed clearly even without the verb.

Why isn’t there an article like “the” before köpek?

Turkish does not have articles like “a” or “the.” The noun köpek stands alone, and context determines whether it refers to a specific dog or dogs in general.

Can öyle be replaced with another word, and what would be the nuance?

Yes, öyle can sometimes be replaced with çok (meaning “very”). However, while both intensify the adjective, öyle often carries a nuance of emphasis with a slight sense of admiration or surprise, whereas çok is more straightforward in its intensifying function.