Learn Hardcore Turkish: Dostluk vazgeçilmez. - Friendship is indispensable.

In Turkish, the linking verb (copula) in the present tense is generally omitted, especially in statements of general truth. So instead of saying Friendship is indispensable, the language simply presents Dostluk vazgeçilmez. The idea of is is understood without being explicitly stated.

What does dostluk mean, and how is it used in this sentence?

Dostluk means friendship. It functions as the subject of the sentence. In Turkish, abstract concepts like friendship are expressed without an article, so the noun stands alone without words like the or a that are common in English.

How is the adjective vazgeçilmez formed, and why does it remain unchanged in form?

Vazgeçilmez is derived from the verb vazgeçmek (to give up) by adding the negative suffix -ilmez, which means cannot be done. This construction implies "cannot be forsaken" and translates as indispensable. In Turkish, adjectives do not change for number, gender, or case, so vazgeçilmez stays in its base form regardless of the noun it describes.

Is the sentence Dostluk vazgeçilmez. considered complete despite having only two words?

Yes, it is a complete sentence in Turkish. The omission of the copula and the succinct subject-predicate structure are typical in Turkish, especially when expressing universally accepted truths. The sentence is both grammatically correct and stylistically effective.

How could I add emphasis to the statement if I wanted to stress the importance of friendship further?

You can add emphasis by incorporating an adverb or emphasis particle. For example, adding gerçekten (meaning really or truly) would result in Gerçekten dostluk vazgeçilmez. This slight modification retains proper Turkish grammar while highlighting the indispensable nature of friendship.