Ancient Kartara/Examples

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Large-Text Examples

From Canoe Mates in Canada: Three Boys Afloat on the Saskatchewan by St. George Rathborne

Kneeling in a "bullboat," fashioned from the skin of an animal, and wielding a paddle with the dexterity only to be attained after years of practice in canoeing, a sturdily-built and thoroughly bronzed Canadian lad glanced ever and anon back along the course over which he had so recently passed; and then up at the black storm clouds hurrying out of the mysterious North.

[...]

Pufio
be-3s.AN.PST oakaĭa
kneel-PTCP oĭlsiasikietopu,
LOC-canoe-INDFisomimi
made-3s.INAN.PST opokalapu
GEN-land.animal-INDF sikieto,
hide tue
andpufio
be-3s.AN.PST tasanoĭa
wield-PTCP asiapu
paddle-INDF si
with uĭaĭśaĭ
dexterityiki
that tahipu
3s.AN-INDF sono
only pamio
make-3s.AN.PST pufio
PERF-3s.AN.PSTkafa
3s.INAN fipatuporu
LAT-year-PAU tuesafokopa
practice-ADJZ ati
ofsiatisafo,
canoeing koĭmeĭ
strong tikofeso
builtkulopu
boy-INDF pikakoe
bronze-like kafiCanada
from-Canada tia
oftentuesoe
do.repeatedly-3s.AN.PST teomaĭa
look-PTCP siĺakoe
backward foĭfiniśi
PER-courseiki
that esoe
do-3s.AN.PST iosisoĭa;
pass-PTCP kake
and.then piraĭ
upwards paĭ
atoloańa
cloud-PL tiketo
storm uĭmu
black iki
that selekela
run-3PL.AN.PSTośaĭ
mysterious fiitolo.
ABL-north

Considering that he was in so vast a wilderness, this adventurous lad appeared to have scant luggage in his well battered bullboat — indeed, beyond the buckskin jacket, which he had thrown off because of his exertions, there did not seem to be anything at all aboard the craft, not even a gun, by means of which he might provide himself with food while on the journey downstream.

Uĭtaĭsaa
consider-3s.INAN iki
that pufio
be-3s.PST oĭloĭokeĭa
LOC-wilderness takeĭ
excessively aluĭ,
big eloĭ
this etopakoe
adventurous kulo
boy iamio
seem-3s.AN.PST tafemaĭa
have-PTCP takeĭ
excessively ami
few tosiku
luggage otahi
GEN-3s.AN tisosesolo
damaged-AUG oĭlsiasikieto —
LOC-canoe ikilo,
indeed ieĭ
except satokapu
jacket-INDF sikieto
hide pipina,
deer eslaĭ
this esese
do-3s.INAN.PST seet́asafaĭa
undress-PTCP umutahi
INS-3s.AN inau
because otahi
GEN-3s.AN sonimuti,
exertion sefaśu
nothing iamili
seem-3PL.INAN.PST oĭlsiati,
LOC-small.boat ikilo
even see
zero atańokepu,
crossbow-INDF umusefaśu
INS-nothing iki
that iiśae
be.able.to-3s.AN.PST eĭeśoĭa
fish-PTCP o
or ulanoĭa
hunt-PTCP piruĭ
downstream oĭlfiśaĭ.
LOC-journey

This singular fact would seem to indicate that he might have had trouble of some sort back yonder.

Eloĭ
this sonolo
only-AUG aĺisaĭ
fact afoĭnaa
would.do-3s.INAN iamaĭa
seem-PTCP teĭkunoĭa
indicate-PTCP iki
that etokio
may-3s.AN.PST pufio
PERF-3s.AN.PST pufio
be-3s.AN.PST oĭltatsa
LOC-trouble ati
of ośaĭ
unknown paĭoĭpu
type-INDF fiti
before emiri.
now

Indeed, the occasional glances which he cast over his shoulder added strength to this possibility; though the look upon his strong face was more in the line of chagrin and anger than fear.

Kamomo
be-3s.INAN aĺu,
true tiali
sometimes-DIM teośatińa
glance-PL teomio
look-3s.AN.PST fiti
behind pokaĭ
REFL koĭmeĭpopo
strengthen-3s.INAN.PST eloĭ
this etokafo;
possibility uoĭ
though otahi
GEN-3s.AN śari
face iamio
seem-3s.AN.PST tafemaĭa
have-PTCP huĭumoĭlo
embarassing-COMP-AUG aĭ
and t́aśkamoĭlo
angry-COMP-AUG eĭa
than kasukopa.
afraid

Single-Sentence Examples

The apple is red.

Hisi	kam-omo	ia.
apple	be-3s.INAN	red

It is John's apple.

Puf-ofo	op-Iono	hisi.
be-3s.INAN	GEN-John	apple

I give John the apple.

Ket-e	hisi	sol-Iono.
give-1s	apple	DAT-John

We want to give him the apple.

Kepis-u	ket-oĭa	hisi	sol-tahi.
want-1DU.EX	give-PTCP	apple	DAT-3s.AN

He gives it to John.

Ket-o	kafa	sol-Iono.
give-3s.AN	3s.INAN	DAT-John

She gives it to him.

Ket-o	kafa	sol-tahi.
give-3s.AN	3s.INAN	DAT-3s.AN

The sun shines.

Ulu	pas-o.
sun	shine-3s.AN

The sun is shining.

Olu	puf-i	pas-oĭa.
sun	be-3s.AN	shine-PTCP

The sun shone.

Olu	pas-eo.
sun	shine-3s.AN.PST

The sun will shine.

Olu	pas-epe.
sun	shine-3s.AN.FUT

The sun has been shining.

Olu	pas-ae	puf-i	es-oĭa.
sun	shine-3s.AN.PST	PERF-3s.AN	PROG-PTCP

When a past-tense verb is followed by the present-tense puf, it indicates the present perfect. Es in participle form after the verb(s) indicates the action is continuing (progressive).

The sun is shining again.

Olu	puf-i	tuka	pas-oĭa.
sun	be-3s.AN	again	shine-PTCP

The sun will shine tomorrow.

Olu	pas-epe	astoku.
sun	shine.3s.AN.FUT	tomorrow

The sun shines brightly.

Olu	pas-o	pasetu.
sun	shine-3s.AN	bright

Most adjectives also function as adverbs.

The bright sun shines.

Olu	pasetu	pas-o.
sun	bright	shine-3s.AN

Ancient Kartara has a tricky adjective system, where most temporary or emotional properties precede the noun (this, 2nd, ugly) while more concrete physical properties follow it (red, old, Reemish).

The sun is rising now.

Olu	puf-i	pu	soup-aĭa.
sun	be-3s.AN	now	rise-PTCP

All the people shouted.

Uko	kart́a	ilon-ile.
all	person	shout-3PL.AN.PST

kart́ańa (person-PL) can be used, too.

Some of the people shouted.

Uso	kart́a	ilon-ire.
Some	person	shout-3PAU.AN.PST

kart́a-ru (person-PAU) can be used, too.

Many of the people shouted twice.

Ańe	kart́a-ru	ilon-ire	ki	teto.
many	person-PAU	shout-3PAU.AN.PST	two	instance

Happy people often shout.

Toa	kart́a-ńa-pu	tia	tues-ole.	ilon-oĭa
Happy	person-PL-INDF	sometimes	do.habitually-3PL.AN	shout-PTCP

Tia tues- (lit. "always do something, sometimes") translates to "often does" and is followed by the participle form of another verb.

The kitten jumped up.

Umati	seles-ae	piraĭ.
kitten	jump-3s.AN.PST	upwards

The kitten jumped onto the table.

Umati	seles-ae	aĺpa	saĭ-ikireta.
kitten	jump-3s.AN.PST	onto	LAT-table

My little kitten walked away.

Op-usa	umati	aki	ses-ae	fi-emiri.
GEN-1s	kitten	little	walk-3s.AN.PST	ABL-here

It's raining.

Uĭlo	toon-ole.
rain	come-3PL.AN

The rain came down.

Uĭlo	toon-ile	piruĭ.
rain	come-3PL.AN.PST	down

The kitten is playing in the rain.

umati	puf-i	fut-oĭa	oĭl-uĭlo.
kitten	be-3s.AN	play-PTCP	LOC-rain

The rain has stopped.

Uĭlo	asam-io	puf-i.
rain	stop-3s.AN.PST	be-3s.AN

Soon the rain will stop.

Uĭlo	asam-iu	oĺa.
rain	stop-3s.AN.FUT	soon

Oĺa	iki	uĭlo	asam-iu.
soon	CONJ.ADV	rain	stop-3s.AN.FUT

Iki can be used to front an adverbial clause, as in the second example.

I hope the rain stops soon.

Husa	siuf-e	iki	uĭlo	asam-iu	oĺa.
1s	hope-1s	that	rain	stop.3s.AN.FUT	soon

Husa is optional.

Iki introduces a subordinate clause.

Once wild animals lived here.

Kala-ńa-pu	oĭoki	puf-ila	oĭl-emiri.
animal-PL-INDF	wild	be-3PL.AN.PST	LOC-here

The indefinite suffix is mandatory when no amount is indicated.

Slowly she looked around.

Uĺkopa	teom-io	peĭaĺśe	oĭl-empi.
completely	look.3s.PST	slow	LOC-3s.AN

Teom is a transitive verb, requiring a second argument.

Go away!

Pu	puf-a	fi-emiri.
now.IMP	be-2s	ABL-here

If pu precedes a bare verb, it denotes the imperative (command) mood.

Eloĭ may be omitted if the place in question is obvious to the listener.

Let's go!

Pu	aĭkuańa	fi-emiri.
now.IMP	1PL.IN	ABL-here

Puf is optional when an affix encodes movement.

You should go.

Oap-a	fi-emiri.
should.do-2s	ABL-here

Demonstrating how eloĭ is optional.

I will be happy to go.

Es-puf-eke	fi-emiri.
BEN.FORM-be-1s.FUT	ABL-here

He will arrive soon.

Puf-iu	saĭ-emiri	oĺa.
be-3s.FUT	LAT-here	soon

The baby's ball has rolled away.

Opo-seaĭ	sou	somus-ese	fi-emiri.
GEN-baby	ball	roll-3s.INAN.PST	ABL-here

The two boys are working together.

Aĭk-ulo-ki	puf-iro	sonim-aĭa.
COM-boy-DU	be.3DU.AN	work-PTCP

This mist will probably clear away.

Eloĭ	kusuo	asam-iu	pokiko.
DET.this	mist	end-3s.AN.FUT	probable

Lovely flowers are growing everywhere.

Uko	oĭl-śi	iki	suĭtu-ńa-pu	antali-lo	oas-ala.
All	LOC-place	CONJ.ADV	flower-PL-INDF	beautiful-AUG	grow-3PL.INAN

We should eat more slowly.

Oap-eĭ	oes-oĭa	peĭaĺśe-moĭ-o.
should-1PAU.IN	eat-PTCP	slow-COMP-AUG

You have come too soon.

Toon-oe	puf-a	takeĭ	oĺa.
come-2s.PST	PERF.2s	too	soon

You must write more neatly.

Saśim-a	tuksun-oĭa	tatu-moĭ-lo.
must.do-2s	write.PTCP	careful-COMP-AUG

Directly opposite stands a wonderful palace.

Iam-omo	siĺao	fi-enopo	iki	tamese	śit́ami-pu	ium-omo.
seem-3s.INAN	stern	ABL-bow	CONJ.ADV	wonderful	palace-INDF	stand.3s.INAN

Iamomo siĺao fienopo is a metaphor roughly meaning "as the stern is from the bow".

Henry's dog is lost.

Opo-Henri	pei	puf-i	topou.
GEN-Henry	dog	be-3s.AN	lost

Opo-Henri	pei	oĭl-topouśi.
GEN-Henry	dog	LOC-unknown.location.on.land

Puf is optional when an affix encodes location.

My cat is black.

Op-usa	umu	puf-i	uĭmu.
GEN-1s	cat	be-3s.AN	black

The little girl's doll is broken.

Opo-kusa	aki	karaki	puf-ofo	ekafeso.
GEN-girl	little	doll	be-3s.INAN	broken

I usually sleep soundly.

Husa	tia-lo	tues-e	ufa	saas-oĭa.
1s	sometimes-AUG	do.habitually-1s	well	sleep-PTCP

Husa is optional, but would most likely be said here for clarity. Augmenting tia turns tia tues- from "often" to "usually".

The children ran after Jack.

Eme-ru	iuśu	selek-era	saĭ-Iaka.
child-PAU	followingly	run-3PAU.AN.PST	LAT-Jack

I can play after school.

Pen-eke	fut-oĭa	saĭ-santus-oĭa.
can-1s.FUT	play.PTCP	LAT-teach-PTCP

We went to the village for a visit.

Puf-ue	saĭ-toĭka	paĭ	taĭkeśaĭ-pu.
be-1DU.EX.PST	LAT-village	for	visit-INDF

We arrived at the river.

Toon-ue	oĭl-ose.
arrive-1DU.EX.PST	LOC-river

Using puf would translate as "we went to the river" and require the lative case.

I have been waiting for you.

Puf-ee	puf-e	akiś-oĭa	paĭ	pepa.
be-1s.PST	PERF.1s	wait-PTCP	for	2s

Es-puf-ee	puf-e	akiś-oĭa.
BEN.FORM-be-1s.PST	PERF-1s	wait-PTCP

The first form would be used by a superior to an underling. The latter from an underling to a superior. In other cases, either could be used.

The campers sat around the fire.

Fin-oĭno-ru	osan-ire	kat́oĭa	halo.
travel-NMLZ-PAU	sit-2PAU.AN.PST	around	fire

A little girl with a kitten sat near me.

Kusa-pu	aki	aĭk-umati-pu	osan-ae	tasa	husa.
girl-INDF	little	COM-kitten-INDF	sit-3s.AN.PST	near	1s

The child waited at the door for her father.

Eme	akiś-ae	oĭl-t́otoĭ	paĭ	o-tahi	ańa.
child	wait.3s.AN.PST	LOC-door	for	GEN-3s	father

Yesterday the oldest girl in the village lost her kitten.

Apopo	iki	oĭl-toĭka	kusa	tio-maĭ	aĭoĭn-ae	o-tahi	umati.
Yesterday	CONJ.ADV	LOC-village	girl	old-SUPL	lose-3s.AN.PST	GEN-3s	kitten

Were you born in this village?

Taa	topatos-oe	seat-eso	eloĭ	oĭl-toĭka?
yes/no	become-3s.PST	birth-ADJZ	DET.this	LOC-village

The interrogative pronoun can be omitted, with intonation alone indicating that it's a question. The pronoun always matches the information being requested.

Can your brother dance well?

Pali	o-pepa	akasa	haĭf-i	ufa?
how	GEN-2s	brother	dance-3s	well

Did the man leave?

Tali	aluko	fi-emiri?
where	man	ABL-here

Is your sister coming for you?

Pali	o-pepa	akasa	saĭ-emiri	paĭ	pepa?
how	GEN-2s	sister	LAT-here	for	you

The pronoun used can reveal why the question is being asked. Here, they are asking how you are leaving, as opposed to who you are leaving with (why not me?), when you are leaving (is it going to be a while?) or even why it's happening (is your sister making you leave?) The most polite pronoun is taa, asking for a simple yes/no answer.

Can you come tomorrow?

Pepa	taa	saĭ-emori	astoku?
2s	yes/no	LAT-there	tomorrow

The interrogative pronoun precedes a regular noun, but follows a personal pronoun.

Have the neighbors gone away for the winter?

Taa	foatia-ki	fi-emiri	paĭ	tarhuĭa?
yes/no	neighbor-DU	ABL-here	for	winter

Does the robin sing in the rain?

Taa	posko-pu	si	palaku	ia	totof-ilo	oĭl-uĭlo?
yes/no	bird-INDF	with	chest	red	sing-3PL.AN	LOC-rain

When talking about a generic noun, the noun receives -pu without any number marker, but the verb takes the 3rd person plural with the proper animacy. (The language lacks a word for 'robin', hence 'bird with red chest'.) This becomes optional when the genericness is implied via quantity adjectives like 'all' or 'many'.

Are you going with us to the concert?

Pepa	taa	saĭ-teto	sora	si	huru?
2s	yes/no	ABL-event	music	with	1PAU.EX

Have you ever travelled in the jungle?

Taa	fin-oe	oĭl-t́au	tinta?
yes/no	travel-2s.PST	LOC-forest	hot

As usual, the personal pronoun is optional.

We sailed down the river for several miles.

Suik-utoĭ	piruĭ	ose	paĭ	foĭ-too-ru.
sail-1PL.EX.PST	downstream	river	for	PER-mile-PAU

Paĭ, when paired with the perlative case, indicates a range of time or distance.

Everybody knows about hunting.

Uko	kart́a	aof-ilo	paĭ	ulanafo.
All	person	know-3PL.AN	about	hunting

On a sunny morning after the solstice we started for the mountains.

Oĭl-toso-pu	olukopa	saĭ-aakulo	iki	utis-ati	fin-oĭa	saĭ-ome-ńa.
LOC-morning-INDF	sunny	LAT-summer.solstice	CONJ.ADV	start-1PAU.EX.PST	move-PTCP	LAT-mountain-PL

Tom laughed at the monkey's tricks.

Tom	iah-io	paĭ	opo-kala	satuĭke-ru.
Tom	laugh-3s.AN.PST	at	GEN-land.animal	game-PAU

An old man with a walking stick stood beside the fence.

Aluko-pu	tio	aĭk-sestaka-pu	ium-io	oplo	t́at́io
man-INDF	old	COM-walking.stick-INDF	stand-3s.AN.PST	beside	fence

Si sestaka is also acceptable, as "man" and "walking stick" don't share the same animacy. However, the comitative prefix is used due to the man being inseparable from the walking stick.

The squirrel's nest was hidden by drooping boughs.

Op-iuĭt́io	pikaĭla	es-ese	aĺas-oĭa	um-atofa	śuimu.
GEN-squirrel	nest	do-3s.INAN.PST	hide-PTCP	INS-branch	drooping

Es is used for passive-voice constructions such as the above, similar to how English uses "to be". Es takes the active conjugation while the passive verb takes the participle form.

The little seeds waited patiently under the snow for the warm spring sun.

Sea-ńa	aki	akiś-ili	toĺo	keĭa	pakasa	paĭ	ulu	enatoĭ-kopa	taoto.
seed-PL	little	wait-3PL.INAN.PST	patiently	under	snow	for	sun	spring-ADJZ	warm

Many little girls with wreaths of flowers on their heads danced around the bonfire.

Ańe	kusa-ńa	aki	si	kat́usuĭtu	oĭl-śaa	haĭf-ila	kat́oĭa	foĭ-haleto.
many	girl-PL	little	with	wreath.of.flowers	LOC-head	dance-3PL.AN	around	PER-bonfire

The cover of the basket fell to the floor.

Op-atkao	onipsa	uis-ese	saĭ-tekeĭa.
GEN-basket	cover	fall.3s.IN.PST	LAT-floor

The first boy in the line stopped at the entrance.

Huka	kulo	oĭl-tupaĭa	akiś-ae	oĭl-kukusiśi.
first	boy	LOC-line	stop-3s.AN.PST	LOC-entrance

On the top of the hill in a little hut lived a wise old woman.

Oĭl-upire-pu	aki	aĺpa	t́o	iki	atipa	asuka-pu	tio.	es-ae	puf-aĭa
LOC-house-INDF	little	on.top.of	hill	CONJ.ADV	wise	woman-INDF	old	do-3s.AN.PST	be-PTCP

The use of iki here indicates that the preceding phrase is the object of the following transitive verb.

During our residence in the country we often walked in the pastures.

Oĭl-puf-ue	oĭl-tusuo-ńa	iki	tia	tues-ue	ses-oĭa	oĭl-aulnuu-ńa.
LOC-be.1DU.EX.PST	LOC-farm-PL	CONJ.ADV	sometimes	do.habitually-1DU.EX.PST	walk-PTCP	LOC-pasture-PL

When will your guests from the city arrive?

Uli	op-esa	torteno-ru	kafi-toĭketo	saĭ-emiri?
when	GEN-2s.FORM	guest-PAU	ADJZ.coming.from-city	LAT-here

Near the mouth of the river, its course turns sharply towards the East.

Op-ose	oĭl-pai	tasa	iki	o-tahi	finiśi	atań-o	poto	saĭ-kuĭu.
GEN-river	LOC-mouth	near	CONJ.ADV	GEN-3s.AN	course	turn-3s.AN	sharp	LAT-east

Between the two lofty mountains lay a fertile valley.

T́afoa	ome-ki	isea	iki	hapitutaĭ	kirampati-pu	kam-imi.
between	mountain-DU	lofty	CONJ.ADV	fertile	valley-INDF	be.3s.INAN.PST

Among the wheat grew tall red poppies.

Oĭl-puĭtia	iki	seĭo-ńa-pu	ia	isea	oas-ili.
LOC-wheat	CONJ.ADV	poppy-PL-INDF	red	tall	grow-3PL.INAN.PST

The strong roots of the oak trees were torn from the ground.

Opo-t́ukea-ńa	koĭmeĭ	taĭuse-ńa	es-ili	sukeĭn -oĭa	fi-t́ala.
GEN-oak.tree-PL	strong	root-PL	do-3PL.INAN.PST	tear-PTCP	ABL-ground

The sun looked down through the branches upon the children at play.

Ulu	teom-io	piruĭ	foĭ-atofa-ru	fut-oĭa	eme-ru.
Sun	look-3s.AN.PST	down	PER-branch-PAU	play-ADJZ	child-PAU

The west wind blew across my face like a friendly caress.

Kafi-koa	okuĭ	ataf-io	op-usa	foĭ-śari	oke	aleĭsokoe	teĭośaĭ-pu.
ADJZ.from-west	wind	blow-3s.AN.PST	GEN-1s	PER-face	like	friendly	caress-INDF

The spool of thread rolled across the floor.

Opuo	ati	suo	somus-ese	foĭ-tekeĭa.
spool	of	thread	roll-3s.INAN.PST	PER-floor

A box of growing plants stood in the window.

Tatoimo-pu	ati	oas-oĭa	oĭomo-ru	osan-ae	oĭl-ako.
box-INDF	of	grow-ADJZ	plant-PAU	sit-3s.INAN.PST	LOC-window

Large objects like houses stand. Smaller objects only sit.

I am very happy.

Puf-e	toa-lo.
be-1s	happy-AUG

These oranges are juicy.

Eloĭ-ru	tao-ru	śaĭsu	kam-oro	uĭtamukopa.
DET.this-PAU	fruit-PAU	brown/orange	be-3PAU.INAN	juicy

Sea water is salty.

Uĭtese-pu	tafem-omo	se.
saltwater-INDF	have-3PAU.INAN	salt

The word for saltwater is also used for the ocean. The difference is that the ocean takes the animate gender!

The streets are full of people.

Oset́ala-ńa	puf-ilo	kart́a-kopa.
street-PL	be.3PL.AN	person-ADJZ

The word for street is based on the word for river, and therefore takes its animate gender. The suffix -kopa most closely resembles the English suffix -ful.

Sugar tastes sweet.

Tipaĭ	soĭs-o	pupaĭ.
sugar	taste-3s.INAN	sweet

The fire feels hot.

Halo	tafem-i	tinta.
fire	has-3s.AN	hot

"Feel" in this context usually translates as "have". Takeis is used to convey what a person feels about themselves.

The little girl seemed lonely.

Kusa	aki	iam-io	hulo.
girl	little	seem-3s.AN.PST	lonely

The little boy's father had once been a sailor.

Opo-kulo	aki	ańa	kam-io	puf-io	suikuaĭ-pu.
GEN-boy	little	father	be-3s.AN.PST	PERF-3s.AN.PST	sailor-INDF

When a past-tense verb is followed by the past-tense puf, it indicates the past perfect.

I have lost my blanket.

Aĭoĭn-ee	puf-e	op-usa	aĭot́a.
lose-1s.PST	PERF-1s	GEN-1s	blanket

A robin has built his nest in the apple tree.

Posko-pu	si	palaku	ia	tiś-ae	puf-i	o-tahi	piaĭsko	oĭl-t́itao	hisi-kopa.
bird-INDF	with	chest	red	make-3s.AN.PST	PERF-3s.AN	GEN-3s.AN	nest	LOC-fruit.tree	appple-ADJZ

At noon we ate our lunch by the roadside.

Oĭl-tisia	iki	oes-ue	op-uki	tielasa	oplo	hiat́ala.
LOC-noon	CONJ.ADV	eat-1DU.EX.PST	GEN-1DU.EX	lunch	by	roadside

Mr. Jones made a knife for his little boy.

Emokefe	Ionse	tiś-ae	op-empi	es-kulo	aki	tiaĭ-pu.
Mr	Jones	make-3s.AN.PST	GEN-3s.AN.FORM	BEN-boy	little	knife-INDF

Their voices sound very happy.

O-tasaru	inaĭo-ru	ion-ire	toa-lo.
GEN-3PAU.AN	voice-PAU	seem-3PAU.AN.PST	happy-AUG

Is today Monday?

Taa	apape	kam-i	Kat́apaso?
yes/no	today	be-3s.AN	Monday?

Have all the leaves fallen from the tree?

Uko	tano	uis-ala	puf-olo	fi-t́io?
All	leaf	fall-3PL.INAN.PST	PERF-3PL.INAN	ABL-tree

Will you be ready on time?

Taa	puf-u	puf-o	taśo	t́aĭ	emori?
yes/no	be-2s.PST	PERF-2s.FUT	ready	correct	then

When a past-tense verb is followed by the future-tense puf, it indicates the future perfect. T́aĭ emori, literally "the correct then", translates to "on time". Ensua can be used in place of emori if needed.

Will you send this message for me?

Seĭoń-e	ikeuk-uku	eloĭ	karau?
request-1s	send-2s.FUT	DET.this	message

Seĭoń indicates the action requested is from the speaker and to the listener, unless specified otherwise (such as, "Bob seĭońo umuTom ikeukuku eloĭ karau?", which would indicate the request is from Bob and directed at Tom [instrumental case]). The following verb is almost always in future-tense, though it might be in present-tense if the request is an immediate command.

Are you waiting for me?

Puf-afe	akiś-oĭa	paĭ	husa?
be-2s.FORM	wait-PTCP	for	1s

Is this the first kitten of the litter?

Kam-i	op-asasa	huka	umati?
be-3s.INAN	GEN-litter	first	kitten

Genitive precedes other demonstratives.

Are these shoes too big for you?

Eloĭ-ki	sauĭ-ki	kam-a	takeĭ	aluĭ	fao	pepa?
DET.this-DU	shoe-DU	be-2s	too.much	big	for	2s

As an opinion, takeĭ always precedes the word it modifies, even when it's an adjective.

How wide is the River?

Salo	toaĭ	ose	kam-i?
what	width	river	be-3s.AN

Listen.

Pu	ioĭs-i.
now.IMP	listen-2s

Sit here by me.

Pu	osan-i	śi	oplo	husa.
now.IMP	sit-2s	place	by	me

Keep this secret until tomorrow.

Kaman-i	esloĭ	si	impolisaĭ	fi-astoku.
keep-2s	DEM.this	with	secrecy	ABL-tomorrow

Pu can be omitted for polite requests and when the context makes the imperative mood obvious.

Come with us.

Pu	fin-i	si	huru.
now.IMP	go-2s	with	1PAU.EX

Bring your friends with you.

Pepa	aĭk-aleĭso-ru	saĭ-emiri.
2s	COM-friend-PAU	LAT-here

Be careful.

Pu	aeń-u	tatu.
now.IMP	care-2s	carefully

Have some tea.

Aiś-e	pefaĭ-ru-pu.
offer-1s	tea-PAU-INDF

The plural is often used as a shorthand for the entirety of something, with the paucal denoting a portion of that. Uso pefaĭ is also acceptable. If the subject of the offer isn't clear from the context, the correct pronoun (or name) can be used before the verb.

Pip and his dog were great friends.

Pipo	aĭ	o-tahi	pei	kam-uru	ufa-lo	aleĭso-ki.
Pip	and	GEN-3s	dog	be-3DU.PST	good-AUG	friend-DU

It is common to use kam instead of puf to denote the permanence of the friendship.

John and Elizabeth are brother and sister.

Iono	aĭ	Elisape	kam-ara	akasa-ki.
John	and	Elizabeth	be-3DU	sibling-DU

You and I will go together.

Aĭkuki	fin-ekuĭ.
1DU.IN	go-1DU.IN.FUT

Pepa aĭkusa finekuĭ is also acceptable, denoting separateness before joining together.

They opened all the doors and windows.

Kukof-ira	uko	t́otoĭ-ńa	aĭ	ako-ńa.
open-3PAU.PST	all	door-PL	and	window-PL

The plural markers are optional (or might be traded for paucal or dual suffixes).

He is small, but strong.

Kam-a	aki,	ieĭ	koĭmeĭ.
be-3s	small	but	strong

Is this tree an oak or a maple?

Salo	eloĭ	t́io	kam-omo	t́ukea-pu	a	t́uśaĭ-pu?
what	this	tree	be-3s.INAN	oak-INDF	or	maple-INDF

Does the sky look blue or gray?

Kompu	iam-i	tioto	a	oksomse?
sky	seem-3s.AN	cyan.blue	or	gray

Takuni is a dark shade of blue, like navy or cobalt. Tioto is lighter, like cyan or sky blue. Note that the sky is considered animate.

Come with your father or mother.

Pu	toon-ii	o-pepa	aĭk-ańa	o	aĭk-aorma.
IMP	come-2s.FUT	GEN-2s	COM-father	or	COM-mother

The possessive pronoun can be distributed across and/or clauses, or you can apply it to both nouns separately: opepa aĭkańa o opepa aĭkaorma.

I am tired, but very happy.

Puf-e	saasu,	ieĭ	toa-lo.
be-1s	tired	but	happy-AUG.

He played a tune on his wonderful flute.

Touĭn-ae	sorio-pu	op-empi	tamese	umu-tiatei.
play-3s.AN.PST	tune-INDF	GEN-3s.AN.FORM	wonderful	INS-flute

Toward the end of August the days grow much shorter.

Teĭkuneso	asaśaĭ	paĭ	hat́upu	iki	paso-ńa	akip-ilo	takeĭ.
towards	ending	for	summer	CONJ.ADV	day-PL	shrink-3PL.INAN	much

Teĭkuneso points at a specific (though possibly unknown) portion of the noun it modifies. (Paĭ asaśaĭ would point to the exact end.)

A company of soldiers marched over the hill and across the meadow.

Haokariso-pu	aĭkses-ae	piraĭ	foĭ-t́o	aĭ	foĭ-tite.
company.of.soldiers-INDF	march-3s.AN.PST	over	PER-hill	and	PER-meadow

Piraĭ is used before foĭt́o to disabiguate that they are going over the hill, not along its edge.

The first part of the story is very interesting.

Huka	pukunuoĭ	ta	koĭasu	kam-omo	uĭlsi-lo.
first	portion	in	story	be-3s.INAN	interesting-AUG

The crow dropped some pebbles into the pitcher and raised the water to the brim.

Aheu	śuĭrim-io	t́akoati-ru-pu	saĭ-tatio	tue	śaĭrim-io	uĭte	saĭ-kata	piraĭ.
crow	drop-3s.PST	pebble-PAU-INDF	LAT-pitcher	&	raise-3s.PST	water	LAT-edge	upper

Tue links verb phrases. Aĭ links noun phrases and adjectives.

The baby clapped her hands and laughed in glee.

Seaĭ	talus-ae	tue	iah-io	si	toa-lo.
baby	clap-3s.AN.PST	and	laugh-3s.AN.PST	with	happy-AUG

Stop your game and be quiet.

Pu	akiś-u	o-pepa	satuĭke	tue	tofoas-i.
IMP	stop-2s	GEN-2s	game	and	be.quiet-2s

The sound of the drums grew louder and louder.

Opo-foru-ru	suafao	puf-iri	opoĭo-moĭ-lo	aĭ	opoĭo-moĭ-lo.
GEN-drum-PAU	sound	be-3PAU.INAN.PST	loud-COMP-AUG	and	loud-COMP-AUG

Do you like summer or winter better?

Eli	ipan-oe	ufa-moĭ-lo	soĭ	tarhuĭa	a	hat́upu?
which	like-2s	good-COMP-AUG	of.the.following	winter	or	summer

That boy will have a wonderful trip.

Eĭna	kulo	pam-iu	tamese	fiśaĭ-pu.
DET.that	boy	obtain-3s.AN.FUT	wonderful	trip-INDF

They won the first two games, but lost the last one.

Utip-ila	huka	satuĭke-ki,	uoĭ	teĺoś-ile	oĺai	eĭloĭ
won-3PL.ANIM.PST	first	game-DU	but	lose-3PL.ANIM.PST	last	DEM.that.one

Take this note, carry it to your mother; and wait for an answer.

Pu	oĭpup-a	eloĭ	karaati,	ikeuk-a	o-pepa	sai-aorma;	tue	akiś-u	paĭ	puĭsaśaĭ-pu.
IMP	receive-2s	DET.this	note	deliver-2s	GEN-2s	LAT-mother	and	wait-2s	for	answer-INDF

I awoke early, dressed hastily, and went down to breakfast.

Soko	feuń-e	pokaĭ,	foatatu	t́asaf-ee,	tue	śuim-ee	paĭ	t́aśeĭ.
early	wake-1s.PST	REFL	hasty	dress-1s.PST	and	go.down-1s.PST	for	breakfast

The reflexive pronoun pokaĭ stands in for any noun, typically the last reference. Both feuń and t́asaf are transitive and require an object, but since the reflexive was used for the first verb in the sentence, the second can be omitted and will be understood to have a reflexive object as well.

Aha! I have caught you!

Etaĭ!	kikaf-ee	puf-e	pepa!
Aha!	catch-1s.PST	PERF-1s	2s

This string is too short!

Eloĭ	suo	puf-ofo	takeĭ	aĭlo!
DET.this	string	be-3s.INAN	too	short

Oh, dear! the wind has blown my hat away!

Tosinu oso!	okuĭ	ataf-es-ae	puf-i	op-usa	t́ańaśa	fi-husa!
Oh dear!	wind	blow-TR-PST.3s.AN	PERF-3s.AN	GEN-1s	hat	ABL-1s

Tosinu oso literally means "smelly fish". It's considered a very mild expletive.

Alas! that news is sad indeed!

Etue!	eloĭ	karaisaĭ	kam-omo	tiase	oplo	aĺisaĭ-pu.
Alas!	DET.this	news	be-3s.INAN	sad	beside/next.to	truth-INDF

Whew! that cold wind freezes my nose!

Arua!	Eĭna	okuĭ	kimi	tososam-es-o	op-usa	kani!
Whew!	DET.that	wind	cold	freeze-TR-3s.AN	GEN-1s	nose

Arua is literally a noise a dog makes.

Are you warm enough now?

Taa	puf-afe	foasośo	taoto	oĭl-emiri?
yes/no	be-2s.FORM	enough	warm	LOC-now

They heard the warning too late.

Suaf-io	puf-io	fitisaĭśaĭ	takeĭ	sau.
hear-3PL.PST	PERF-3PL.PST	warning	too	late

We are a brave people, and love our country.

Kam-ou	koĭ	kart́aao	tue	takaeń-uoĭ	op-una	uĭtuka.
be-1PL.EX	brave	people	and	love-1PL.EX	GEN-1PL.EX	country

All the children came except Mary.

Uko	eme-ńa	toon-ile	ieĭ	fo-es-ae	Omari
all	child-PL	come-3PL.AN.PST	except	not-do-3s.AN.PST	Mary

Eme-ńa	paoń-ae	Omari	toon-ile.
child-PL	remove-3s.PST	Mary	come-3PL.AN.PST

[X] removing [Y] is a common way to indicate [X] except for [Y], and is understood as a noun phrase requiring a verb.

Jack seized a handful of pebbles and threw them into the lake.

Iaka	takuaś-oe	t́akoati-ru-pu	tue	otap-io	sol-emoru	saĭ-oa.
Jack	sieze-3s.AN.PST	pebble-PAU-INDF	and	throw-3s.AN.PST	DAT-those.PAU	LAT-lake

This cottage stood on a low hill, at some distance from the village.

Eloĭ	upire	ium-imi	oĭl-t́o	piruĭ,	kam-imi	fi-toĭka	teta.
this	cottage	stand-3s.INAN.PST	LOC-hill	low	be-3s.INAN.PST	ABL-village	far

On a fine summer evening, the two old people were sitting outside the door of their cottage.

Ufa	hat́upu	oĭl-tinse-pu,	kart́a-ki	tio	osan-ire	es-oĭa	o-taski	op-upire	oĭl-t́otoĭ	foaakoe.
fine	summer	LOC-evening-INDF	person-DU	old	sit-3DU.PST	do-PROG	GEN-3DU	GEN-cottage	LOC-door	outside.of

Our bird's name is Jacko.

Op-uki	opo-posko	asuoĭ	kam-omo	Iaka.
GEN-1DU.EX	GEN-bird	name	be-3s.INAN	Jack

The river knows the way to the sea.

Ose	aof-i	finiśi	paĭ	saĭ-uĭtese.
river	know-3s.INAN	way	for	LAT-sea

The boat sails away, like a bird on the wing.

Sia	es-a	suik-aĭa	fi-emiri,	iam-i	pokso-pu	t́ami	feuś-oĭa.
boat	do-3s.INAN	sail-PTCP	ABL-here	seem-3s.AN	bird-INDF	while	fly-3s.PTCP

They looked cautiously about, but saw nothing.

Teom-ira	tatu	oĭl-emori,	uoĭ	his-ire	sefaśu.
look-3PAU.AN.PST	cautious	LOC-there	but	see-3PAU.AN.PST	nothing

The little house had three rooms, a sitting room, a bedroom, and a tiny kitchen.

Upire

aki

tafem-imi

pa

tekoĭ-ru,

alumani

tekoĭ-pu,

saasu

tekoĭ-pu,

aĭ

pies-u

tekoĭ-pu

ati-li.

house

little

have-3s.INAN.PST

3

room-PAU

welcoming

room-INDF

sleepy

room-INDF

and

cook-ADJZ

room-INDF

small-DIM

We visited my uncle's village, the largest village in the world.

Taĭken-ue	toĭka	ati	op-usa	ańkasa,	toĭka	aluĭ-maĭ	aĺpa	toĭnaĭ.
visit-1DU.EX.PST	village	of	GEN-1s	uncle	village	large-SUPL	on.top.of	world

We learn something new each day.

santusoĭmip-eo	unia	faśu-pu	iaĭ	paso-ńa.
learn-1s.INCL	new	something-INDF	continuous	day-PL

The market begins five minutes earlier this week.

Tuaniśi	soko	utis-uĭa	paĭ	ka	fot́iliao-ru	eloĭ	foĭ-pasoao.
market	early	begin-3s.INAN.FUT	by	five	minute-PAU	DET.this	PER-week

Did you find the distance too great?

Taa	takeis-oseĭ	okiisaĭ	takeĭ	okio?
yes/no	feel-2s.FORM.PST	length	too.much	long

Hurry, children.

eme-ńa,	pu	kot́op-ala.
child-PL	IMP	hurry-2PL

Madam, I will obey your command.

Emokefe,	tokof-eke	op-esa	pakhaĭśaĭ.
Madam	obey-1s.FUT	GEN-2s.FORM	command

Here under this tree they gave their guests a splendid feast.

Oĭl-emiri,	keĭa	eloĭ	t́io,	iki	tikof-ira	op-emki	sol-torteno-ńa	ufa-lo	oesoĭseto-pu.
LOC-here	under	this	tree	CONJ.ADV	threw.event-3PAU.AN.PST	GEN-3DU.FORM	DAT-guest-PL	good-AUG	feast-INDF

In winter I get up at night, and dress by yellow candlelight.

Oĭl-tarhuĭa	iki	tues-e	feuń-oĭa	pokaĭ	oĭl-antaĭ	tue	t́asaf-aĭa	kamo-kateu	umu-pasoĭa	aspiaa.
LOC-winter	CONJ.ADV	do.habitually-1s	wake-PTCP	REFL	LOC-night	and	dress-PTCP	ADJZ.from-candle	INS-light	yellow

Tell the last part of that story again.

Tuka	pu	ion-i	oĺai	pukunuoĭ	ta	koĭasu.
again	IMP	tell-2s	last	portion	in	story

Be quick or you will be too late.

Kot́op-ala	tuuĭ	puf-o	takeĭ	sau.
hurry-2s	or	be-2s.FUT	too	late

Will you go with us or wait here?

Eli	fin-o	aĭk-uru	tuuĭ	akiś-ii	oĭl-emiri?
which	go-2s.FUT	COM-1PAU.EX	or	wait-2s.FUT	LOC-here

She was always shabby, often ragged, and on cold days very uncomfortable.

Tues-ae	puf-aĭa	takoe,	tia	foapatio,	aĭ	oĭl-paso-ńa	kimi	takeĭ	foufa.
do.habitually-3s.AN.PST	be-PTCP	shabby	sometimes	ragged	and	LOC-day-PL	cold	very	uncomfortable

Think first and then act.

Takaif-a	fiti	es-i.
think-2s	before	do-2s

I stood, a little mite of a girl, upon a chair by the window, and watched the falling snowflakes.

Ium-ee,	kusa-pu	iam-io	t́it́i-li,	aĺpa	au-pu	aplo	ako,	tue	his-ee	pakasa-ńa	uiseso.
stand-1s.PST	girl-INDF	seem-3s.AN.PST	bug-DIM	on	chair-INDF	by	window	and	watch-1s.PST	snow-PL	falling

Show the guests these shells, my son, and tell them their strange history.

Op-usa

ulota,

pu

ketis-i

eloĭ-ru

asie-ru

sol-torteno-ńa

tue

ion-i

o-kańa

tanke

okoĭlasu

sol-emuńa.

GEN-1s

son

IMP

show-2s

DET-PAU

seashell-PAU

DAT-guest-PL

and

tell-2s

GEN-3PL.AN

weird

history

DAT-3PL.AN.FORM

Be satisfied with nothing but your best.

Uĭsim-ame	esokaĭ	sono	iki	op-esa	ufa-maĭ	umu-soniśaĭ.
satisfy-2s.FORM	REFL	only	CONJ.ADV	GEN-2s.FORM	good-SUPL	INS-work

We consider them our faithful friends.

Take-puaf-uo	iki	kam-iro	op-uki	śoki	aleĭso-ki.
strongly-believe-1DU.EX	that	be-3PAU.AN	GEN-1DU.EX	faithful	friend-DU

We will make this place our home.

T́okif-eko	op-aĭkuki	piaĭ	sol-emiri.
make-1DU.INCL.FUT	GEN-1DU.INCL	home	DAT-this.place

The squirrels make their nests warm and snug with soft moss and leaves.

Iuĭt́io-ńa	kuĭn-ole	taoto	aĭ	ufa	opo-taśńa	sol-pikaĭla-ńa	umu-pooĭ-ru	aĭ	umu-tano-ru.
squirrel-PL	make-3PL.AN	warm	and	comfortable	GEN-3PL	DAT-nest-PL	INS-moss-PAU	and	INS-leaf-PAU

The little girl made the doll's dress herself.

Opo-kusa	aki	tiś-ae	tuĭloa	opo-karaki	puĭa.
GEN-girl	little	make-3s.AN.PST	alone	GEN-doll	dress

I hurt myself.

Tisos-ee	pokaĭ.
hurt-1s.PST	REFL

She was talking to herself.

Es-ae	ion-oĭa	sol-pokaĭ.
do-3s.AN.PST	talk-PTCP	DAT-REFL

He proved himself trustworthy.

Takeketis-ee	pokaĭ	kam-aĭa	t́uĭkasoĭmi.
prove-3s.AN	REFL	be-PTCP	trustworthy

We could see ourselves in the water.

Iiś-ure	his-oĭa	pokaĭ-ki	oĭl-uĭte.
can-2DU.PST	see-PTCP	REFL-DU	LOC-water

Do it yourself.

Pu	saśim-ii	es-oĭa.
IMP	must.do-2s.FUT	do-PTCP

I feel ashamed of myself.

Takeis-e	aaĭkopa.
feel-1s	shameful

Alternately, one could say takeise aaĭkoe, which is merely "I feel ashamed."

Sit here by yourself.

Pu	tapateso	osan-ii	oĭl-emiri.
IMP	separated	sit-2s.FUT	LOC-here

The dress of the little princess was embroidered with roses, the national flower of the Country.

Opo-t́amuati	aki	puĭa	kam-imi	eat́-oĭa	si	piura-ńa-pu,	kam-olo	op-uĭtuka	eonestuo	suĭtu.
GEN-princess	little	dress	be-3s.INAN.PST	sew-PTCP	with	rose-PL-INDF	be-3PL.INAN	GEN-country	symbolic	flower

They wore red caps, the symbol of liberty.

T́asaf-ila	t́ańaśa-ńa-pu	ia,	kam-olo	piofafo	eonestuiśaĭ.
wear-3s.AN.PST	hat-PL-INDF	red	be-3PL.INAN	liberty	symbol

With him as our protector, we fear no danger.

Aĭk-empi	oke	t́aamaĭno,	foa-tafem-aĭ	kasu	paĭ	t́ami	haĭsisaĭ.
COM-3s.AN.FORM	as	protector	do.not-have-3PL.INCL	fear	for	any	danger

Aĭk- (COM) gets used for animate instruments and umu- (INS) is for inanimate instruments.

All her finery, lace, ribbons, and feathers, was packed away in a trunk.

op-empi	uko	ufalu	etaĭkatu,	esasta,	sopio,	aĭ	olfi	es-ile	puf-aĭa	saĭ-tatoimo-pu.
GEN-3s.AN.FORM	all	fine	clothing	lace	ribbon	&	feather	do-3PL. INAN.PST	be-PTCP	LAT-trunk-INDF

Light he thought her, like a feather.

Kusa	osei	tahi	es-ae	takaif-aĭa,	oke	olfi-pu.
girl	light	3s.AN	do-3s.PST	consider-PTCP	like	feather-INDF

When keeping to pronouns would make the sentence unclear, the patient of a sentence is usually transformed into a noun, and the agent is inserted as a pronoun.

Every spring and fall our cousins pay us a long visit.

Uko	oĭl-enatoĭ	aĭ	eropertu	op-uru	ańkaseme-ru	tues-ore	taĭken-oĭa	huru.	paĭ	emori	okio.
every	LOC-spring	&	fall	GEN-3s.PAU	cousin-PAU	do.habitually-3PAU.AN	visit-PTCP	1PAU.EX	for	time	long

In our climate the grass remains green all winter.

O-taśńa	oĭl-kompisaĭ,	śasa-ńa	tues-ala	kam-aĭa	aktofo	foĭ- tarhuĭa.
GEN-3PL.AN	LOC-climate	grass-PL	do.habitually-3PL.INAN	be-PTCP	green	PER-winter

The boy who brought the book has gone.

Kulo	eslaĭ	seat-ae	fuhao	puf-io	fi-emiri.
boy	this.one	bring-3s.AN	book	be-3s.AN	ABL-here

These are the flowers that you ordered.

Eslaĭ-ńa	kam-olo	suĭtu-ńa	iki	tusin-oneĭ	kańa.
this.one-PL	be-3PL.INAN	flower-PL	that	buy-2s.FORM.PST	3PL.INAN

I have lost the book that you gave me.

Aĭoĭn-ee	puf-e	fuhao	iki	ket-oe	husa	sol-kafa.
lose-1s.PST	PERF-1s	book	that	give-2s.PST	1s	DAT-3s.INAN