Learn Hardcore Turkish: Masrafı azaltmak için toplu taşıma kullanmayı tercih ettim. - I preferred to use public transport to reduce expenses.

Masraf means expense or cost. The -ı suffix is the accusative case marker, showing that masrafı is a definite direct object (“the expense”).

Why is masrafı singular instead of plural masrafları?

Using singular masraf generalizes the idea of cost in a broad sense. Plural masrafları would emphasize multiple, specific expenses. Both forms are correct; the singular fits a general statement about cutting costs.

What does azaltmak için mean and why is it structured this way?

Azaltmak is the infinitive to reduce, and için means in order to. Combined, azaltmak için forms a purpose clause translating as in order to reduce.

How does için function in this sentence?

İçin is a postposition meaning for or in order to. After an infinitive verb (-mak/-mek), it indicates purpose. Unlike case suffixes, için is a separate word.

What is toplu taşıma and how do you translate it?

Toplu means mass or collective, taşıma means transport. Together toplu taşıma = public transportation or mass transit.

Why is kullanmayı used instead of just kullanmak?

After tercih etmek (to prefer), the object must be a nominalized verb in the accusative. Kullanmak (to use) → noun kullanma → accusative kullanmayı, meaning using as the object of preference.

Why is the subject “I” omitted and how do we know it’s first person?

Turkish often drops pronouns when the verb ending makes the subject clear. Ettim in tercih ettim ends in -im, marking first person singular past (“I preferred”).

What is a literal English translation of the whole sentence?

Literally: In order to reduce the expense, I preferred using public transportation.
More naturally: I chose to use public transportation to cut down on costs.