Elon.io is an online learning platform
We have an entire course teaching Turkish grammar and vocabulary.
Questions & Answers about Ben tehlikeyi göze alıyorum.
What is the literal and idiomatic meaning of the sentence “Ben tehlikeyi göze alıyorum”?
Literally, the sentence translates to “I take the danger to my eye.” However, idiomatically it means “I'm taking a risk” or “I'm risking danger.” The expression “göze almak” has an idiomatic usage in Turkish that conveys accepting or facing danger by taking a risk.
Why is “tehlikeyi” written with an accusative suffix and what does that indicate?
In Turkish, when a definite direct object is used, it normally takes an accusative marker. In this case, “tehlike” becomes “tehlikeyi” by adding the suffix “-yi”. This indicates that the danger referred to is specific and definite—the object of the idiomatic expression.
How is the present continuous tense formed in the verb “göze alıyorum” and what does it tell us about the subject?
The base verb is “almak” (to take). To form the present continuous for the first person singular, the suffix “-ıyor” is added to the verb stem, followed by the personal ending “-um.” This creates “alıyorum,” which translates to “I am taking.” The verb ending clearly indicates that the subject is “I” (ben), even though Turkish often allows the subject to be dropped.
What does the idiom “göze almak” literally mean and how does its figurative meaning compare in English?
Literally, “göze almak” translates as “to take to one’s eye.” However, its idiomatic or figurative meaning is “to take a risk” or “to risk something.” While the literal translation might seem unclear or strange in English, the idiom is well understood by native speakers to mean engaging in an action despite potential danger.
Why might a speaker choose to include the subject pronoun “Ben” even though Turkish allows for pro-drop of personal pronouns?
Although Turkish often omits personal pronouns because the verb’s conjugation already indicates the subject, including “Ben” (I) can serve several functions. It can add emphasis, clarify the speaker’s identity, or make the statement more explicit. In this sentence, it reinforces that “I” am the one taking the risk.