Chapter 2: General and Dual Articles Flashcards
Write the paradigm for the general article.
Singular: te, te hō’e, te tahi; Plural: te mau, tau, te hō’e mau, te tahi mau/vetahi mau; Dual: tau na, nau, na.
Stative: ‘o, ‘e
te
the definite article
te mau
the plural definite article
tau na
dual definite article
te hō’e
the indefinite article
te hō’e mau
the plural indefinite article “some”
te tahi
another, a different one
te tahi mau
another, a different one (plural)
What are the two functions of the stative article ‘e/’o?
It is used with all common nouns with demonstrative force, ‘e ta’ata, “it is a person.”
It is also used to express a vocative: ‘e teri’i, “Teri’i!”
How is the dual article na used?
It is the article used with two persons or objects which are normally found in pairs, like hands or parents.
It is also used with numbers up to ten, with reference to persons, if the actual number is specified.
How is the dual article nau used?
When the subject is dual and and near the speaker, “These two shoes.”
When is the dual article tau na used?
When the subject is dual and far from the speaker, “the stars,” “those stars.”
