Works on Grammar and Linguistics

Question 1

What is the Ashtadhyayi?

Answer 1

Foundational text on Sanskrit grammar; standardizes linguistic rules; includes morphology and syntax.

Authored by Panini, this text is crucial for understanding the structure and rules of Sanskrit language.

Question 2

Who wrote the Mahabhashya?

Answer 2

Patanjali

The Mahabhashya is a commentary on Panini’s Ashtadhyayi and provides explanations of grammar rules with examples.

Question 3

What do the Pratishakhyas focus on?

Answer 3

Phonetics and phonology; related to Vedic recitation traditions.

These texts are essential for understanding the sound system of Vedic Sanskrit.

Question 4

What is the significance of the Tolkappiyam?

Answer 4

Earliest Tamil grammar text; covers phonetics, morphology, and syntax; part of Sangam literature.

Tolkappiyar authored this text, making it a foundational work for Tamil language studies.

Question 5

Who is the author of Siddhanta Kaumudi?

Answer 5

Bhattoji Dikshita

This work is a simplified commentary on Panini’s grammar, aimed at making grammar accessible to students.

Question 6

Fill in the blank: The Ashtadhyayi includes rules on _______ and syntax.

Answer 6

morphology

It is essential for understanding the grammatical structure of Sanskrit.

Question 7

True or False: The Mahabhashya discusses phonetics.

Answer 7

True

It provides a comprehensive explanation of grammar rules, including phonetic aspects.