Learn Hardcore Turkish: Saklambaç oynamak eğlencelidir.

Saklambaç refers to the game known as "hide and seek." It is the Turkish word for a popular children’s game where one player closes their eyes and counts while the others hide.

Why is the verb form oynamak used instead of a conjugated form?

In Turkish, the infinitive form of a verb (ending in -mak or -mek) can function as a noun. In this sentence, oynamak means "to play" or "playing" and, when combined with saklambaç, forms a noun phrase that acts as the subject ("playing hide and seek").

What is the role of the suffix -dir in eğlencelidir?

The suffix -dir serves as a copula, similar to the English verb "is." When attached to eğlenceli (fun), it turns the adjective into a complete predicate, asserting that the subject is fun. This suffix also adds a sense of certainty or general truth to the statement.

How does the Turkish sentence structure compare to the English equivalent "Playing hide and seek is fun"?

Both sentences have a similar overall meaning and structure. In Turkish, the activity is expressed by an infinitive phrase (saklambaç oynamak), which serves as the subject. The predicate is formed by the adjective eğlenceli with the copulative -dir suffix, corresponding directly to the English construction where the subject ("playing hide and seek") is linked to the adjective ("fun") by "is."

Why is it grammatically acceptable to use an infinitive phrase as a subject in Turkish?

Turkish grammar commonly allows the use of an infinitive – essentially a verbal noun – as the subject when referring to actions or activities. In this case, oynamak (to play) paired with saklambaç (hide and seek) forms a complete noun phrase that accurately represents the activity being described as fun.

How is the appropriate infinitive ending chosen in Turkish, as seen in oynamak instead of oynama?

The choice between -mak and -mek is governed by vowel harmony. The verb stem oyna contains vowel sounds that require the -mak ending to maintain a harmonious sound throughout the word. This is why oynamak is used as the correct infinitive form.