Learn Hardcore Turkish: Projeyi tamamlamadan önce taslakları revize etmek gerekir. - You need to revise the drafts before completing the project.

It means “before completing the project.” The phrase is a subordinate (temporal) clause. It begins with “Projeyi,” which is in the accusative case to mark a definite object of the verb “tamamlamak” (to complete). The form “tamamlamadan” is created by removing the infinitive ending from “tamamlamak” and attaching the suffix “-madan” to indicate “before doing,” which is then followed by “önce” (before), reinforcing the temporal aspect.

Why is the noun “proje” changed to “projeyi” in this context?

In Turkish, definite direct objects in a clause are marked with the accusative case. Since “projeyi” refers to a specific project that is being completed, it receives the accusative ending “-yi.” This shows that the project is the definite object of the verb “tamamlamak” in the subordinate clause.

How does the suffix “-madan” function in “tamamlamadan”?

The suffix “-madan” is a negative participle or adverbial suffix used to construct temporal clauses. When attached to a verb stem (after removing the infinitive ending), it indicates that something happens “before” the verb’s action takes place. So, “tamamlamadan” literally translates as “before finishing” or “before completing.”

What is the grammatical role of the segment “taslakları revize etmek gerekir”?

This segment is an impersonal construction expressing necessity. The infinitive phrase “taslakları revize etmek” (to revise the drafts) functions as the logical subject of the sentence, and “gerekir” means “it is necessary” or “must be done.” Together, the clause means “It is necessary to revise the drafts.”

Why is the verb “etmek” used after “revize” in the sentence?

In Turkish, many loanwords or noun forms—like “revize” (borrowed from English “revise”)—are combined with the verb “etmek” (to do) to form a complete verbal phrase. Thus, “revize etmek” translates as “to revise” or “to carry out a revision.”

Why is the subordinate clause placed at the beginning of the sentence?

Turkish often places temporal or conditional phrases at the start to provide context for the main action. In this sentence, “Projeyi tamamlamadan önce” sets the time frame—indicating that the revision of the drafts is required before the project is completed. This ordering is typical in Turkish sentence structure.