GrammarAdvanced1 min read
Somali Relative Clauses
Learn how to form relative clauses in Somali using relative markers and proper word order.
Relative clauses in Somali are formed using special relative markers. They allow you to combine sentences and create more complex expressions.
Relative Markers
The relative marker replaces the declarative/focus marker:
| Direct Object Relative | Subject Relative |
|---|---|
| ee (that/which/who) | oo (that/which/who) |
Subject Relative Clauses
When the relative clause subject is the same as the main clause subject, use oo:
Ninkii oo yimid waa saaxiibkay. The man who came is my friend.
Object Relative Clauses
When the relative refers to the object, use ee:
Buugga aan akhriyay ee aad i siisay. The book that I read that you gave me.
Examples
| Somali | English |
|---|---|
| Ninka jooga halkaa waa macalin | The man who is standing there is a teacher |
| Buugga aan soo iibsaday waa cusub yahay | The book that I bought is new |
| Gabadha ay hooyadeed tahay macalin | The girl whose mother is a teacher |
Negative Relative Clauses
Use aan + negative verb:
Ninka aan iman waa jiran yahay. The man who did not come is sick.
Key Points
- The relative clause typically precedes the main verb
- Somali can string multiple relative clauses together
- The tone of the relative verb often changes to indicate the relative form