I felt like a sinking ship on the last bit of Turkish grammar I learned.
“Ex: The eraser is in the pocket of Isabel’s coat.”
Make two of the nouns possessive. Then, (generally) add a direct object ending to the last noun depending on what verb you used. And, of course, the ending you used must match up with the last vowel to create “vowel harmony.” Enough!
This past month has been one of the most challenging months for me living in Istanbul. I’ve studied several hours a day. I’ve shed a few tears. I’ve certainly cursed a few times, and I’ve argued with my husband. I haven’t cooked all week. Thank goodness for online restaurant delivery service here!
However, today, I took my final exam in level 1 of an intensive Turkish language class at Dilmer. I passed! I’m very happy and relieved. As I write this, I am enjoying a well-deserved glass of white French Sauvignon wine.
It’s amazing how much I’ve crammed into my brain this past month. I’ve probably learned 100 Turkish verbs plus countless of nouns, adjectives and adverbs. I had an amazing teacher and I’d highly recommend the school I attended. Now, I actually want to start using all my “book knowledge” and put it to test on the streets of Istanbul.
I’ve already used bits and pieces here and there. I certainly do feel more confident than I did previously. I don’t want to just get by anymore like I have been doing for the last several months. I’m living in a foreign country and I should know the language.
Turkish has been the most complex language I’ve studied. There are exceptions to so many things. Just when you think you understand the rules, a curve ball is tossed your way. If a noun ends in p, change that letter to b. If a verb ends in f, s, t, k or several other letters then you must use the “t” ending instead of “d” for the past tense.
I studied Spanish all through high school and college. Over the years, I’ve picked up enough French culinary terms through the restaurant business. But Turkish has been difficult for me to grasp.
Tekrar, tekrar, tekrar. Şimdi çok pratik!
I’m sure I’ll still hit some speed bumps along the way, but I will keep trying.
 |
| Here's copy of my certificate just to prove I passed my Turkish exam! |
