Elon.io is an online learning platform
We have an entire course teaching Turkish grammar and vocabulary.
Questions & Answers about Lütfen kapıyı kapat.
What is the function of lütfen in this sentence?
Lütfen means please. It is used to soften the command, adding a polite tone to the request.
Why does kapıyı have the suffix -yı, and what does this indicate?
The noun kapı (door) takes the accusative suffix -yı to mark it as a definite direct object. In Turkish, when a specific object is involved, the accusative case is required to indicate that it is the target of the action.
What does the verb kapat mean and what form is it in?
Kapat is the imperative form of the verb kapatmak (to close). This form is used to give a direct command, addressing someone in the singular, typically in an informal context.
Why is the object of the sentence attached to the noun as a suffix rather than standing as a separate word?
Turkish is an agglutinative language, which means grammatical functions like case roles are expressed through suffixes. Here, the accusative suffix -yı is attached to kapı to clearly mark it as the definite direct object of the verb kapat.
Does placing lütfen at the beginning of the sentence change its structure or meaning?
No, placing lütfen at the beginning does not change the structure or the core meaning of the sentence. It simply adds a layer of politeness to the imperative command, ensuring the request is courteous.