Learn Hardcore Turkish: Yeni halıyı dikkatlice temizlemeyi unutma. - Don't forget to clean the new carpet carefully.

In Turkish, the accusative suffix marks definite direct objects. In “yeni halıyı,” the suffix –yı indicates that a specific carpet is being referred to. Similarly, “temizlemeyi” is the verbal noun form of “temizlemek” (to clean) with the accusative ending; it functions as the object of the verb “unutma” (don’t forget), emphasizing that the cleaning is a definite, intended action.

How is the verbal noun “temizlemeyi” formed, and what role does it play in the sentence?

“Temizlemeyi” is created by taking the infinitive “temizlemek” and adding the accusative suffix –yı, which turns the verb into a verbal noun. This verbal noun acts as the object of the negative imperative “unutma,” so the phrase “temizlemeyi unutma” literally means “don’t forget the cleaning” or, more naturally, “don’t forget to clean.”

Why is the negative imperative form “unutma” used here, and what does it imply about the addressee?

“Unutma” is the informal singular negative imperative of “unutmak” (to forget). In this context, it gives a direct command or friendly reminder to a single person to not forget to perform the cleaning. Turkish often drops explicit subjects in commands because the verb form makes it clear that the instruction is directed at “you.”

What is the function and placement of the adverb “dikkatlice” in the sentence?

“Dikkatlice” means “carefully” and serves as an adverb describing how the cleaning should be done. Its placement—following the object “yeni halıyı” and preceding the verbal noun “temizlemeyi”—highlights that the manner in which the cleaning is performed is important. Turkish adverbs typically appear close to the verb or noun they modify to convey emphasis.

Is it common in Turkish to omit the subject in a sentence like this, and why?

Yes, it is very common to omit the subject in Turkish when it can be understood from context. In commands and everyday speech, the subject “you” is implied by the verb form. The negative imperative “unutma” already indicates that the instruction is directed at a singular, informal “you,” making an explicit subject unnecessary.