2. Basic sentences

Question 1

When is the ‘optional ν’ used in λυουσιν?

Answer 1

Always used before a vowel and at the end of a sentence.

Question 2

What is the stem of a verb?

Answer 2

The stem denotes the basic meaning of the word.

Question 3

What is the ending of a verb?

Answer 3

The ending indicates the person (who is doing the action)

Question 4

Define conjugation

Answer 4

A pattern of the forms of a verb (a particular set of endings on the stem)

Question 5

What is the meaning of the present tense?

Answer 5

The Present tense signifies an action:

– taking place in the present

– which is either a) process or b) undefined in nature.

Question 6

What is the process meaning of λυο?

Answer 6

I am untying

Question 7

What is the undefined meaning of λυο?

Answer 7

I untie

Question 8

Contract verb:

ε + ε = …

Answer 8

ει

Question 9

Contract verb:

ε + ο = …

Answer 9

ου

Question 10

Contract verb:

ε + any long vowel or diphtong = …

Answer 10

The ε is absorbed without making a difference.

Question 11

Define inflection

Answer 11

When the stem of a noun is changed to communicate more precise informatino about the function of the word in the sentence.

Question 12

Define case

Answer 12

Forms used to indicate the word’s function in the sentence, such as being the subject

Question 13

Define number

Answer 13

Whether a noun is singular or plural

Question 14

Define declension

Answer 14

The pattern of endings for a noun – going through them is called declining it.

Question 15

Define nominative

Answer 15

Subject

Question 16

Define accusative

Answer 16

Object

Question 17

What is the word for ‘a’ in Greek?

Answer 17

There is no indefinite article in Greek. λογος can mean ‘word’ or ‘a word’ – the context will make it clear.

Question 18

Define agreement

Answer 18

When the verbs agree with their subject in number.

Question 19

What are the three steps to translation?

Answer 19

1. Work out the cases of the words
2. Work out why they have the cases they do
3. Translate the sentence accordingly

Question 20

What is a special use of the definite article?

Answer 20

Greek normally uses the definite article with abstract nouns or generalisations, e.g. ό ανθροπος can mean ‘the person’, or ‘humanity’ in general.