Breakdown of Ben geleceği şekillendirmek istiyorum.
ben
I
istemek
to want
gelecek
the future
şekillendirmek
to shape
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Questions & Answers about Ben geleceği şekillendirmek istiyorum.
Why is the subject "Ben" explicitly included in the sentence even though the verb already indicates the first person singular?
In Turkish, the verb ending (as in "istiyorum") already shows that the subject is first person singular. However, including "Ben" (meaning I) can be used for emphasis, clarity, or contrast. It’s optional, and native speakers often drop it in casual speech.
What is the function of the "-i" attached to "gelecek" forming "geleceği"?
The suffix "-i" in "geleceği" is the accusative case marker. It indicates that "the future" is a definite object of the verb "şekillendirmek" (to shape). Due to vowel harmony, the marker appears as "-i" here.
How is "şekillendirmek" formed, and what does it mean in this context?
"şekillendirmek" is the infinitive form meaning "to shape" or "to form". It is constructed by taking a root related to "shape/form" (from "şekil") and adding the causative/infinitive suffixes. In the sentence, it expresses the action that the speaker wishes to perform on the future.
How does the structure "Infinitive verb + istiyorum" work in expressing desire in Turkish?
In Turkish, when you want to express a desire to perform an action, you use the pattern "Verb (in its infinitive form) + istiyorum". Here, "şekillendirmek" is the infinitive (meaning "to shape") and "istiyorum" means "I want". Together, they form the equivalent of the English construction "I want to shape…".
Is the word order in this Turkish sentence similar to English, and can it be rearranged?
While the logical order of ideas is similar—subject (Ben), object (geleceği), action (şekillendirmek), desire (istiyorum)—Turkish word order is relatively flexible compared to English. However, this particular order effectively emphasizes that the speaker wants to take action on "the future". Changing the order might alter the emphasis or clarity, so beginners are encouraged to follow the standard structure at first.