Introduction To Uzbek Nouns
Introduction To Uzbek Nouns
Nouns in Uzbek (otlar) name people, places, things, or ideas. Unlike many languages that feature
complex systems of gender and case, Uzbek simplifies these aspects, focusing instead on
agglutination—where suffixes are added to the base word to express grammatical relations.
Classification of Nouns
Uzbek nouns can be broadly classified into proper nouns (oʻzga ismlar) that name specific entities,
and common nouns (umumiy ismlar) referring to general items or concepts.
Singular: In Uzbek, singular nouns do not require a specific suffix unless specified by
a numeral or quantifier.
Plural: The plural form of Uzbek nouns is typically formed by adding the suffix “-lar”
or “-lar” following vowel harmony rules. For example, “kitob” (book) becomes
“kitoblar” (books), and “dost” (friend) becomes “dostlar” (friends).
Possessive Forms
Possession in Uzbek is indicated by possessive suffixes attached directly to the noun. These suffixes
agree with the possessor’s person and number.
Possessive Suffixes: They include “-im” (my), “-ing” (your, singular), “-i” (his/her/its),
“-miz” (our), “-ingiz” (your, plural), and “-lari” (their). For example, “kitobim” (my
book) and “uyingiz” (your house, plural).
Nominative Case: The base form of the noun without any suffixes.
Accusative Case: Indicated by the suffix “-ni” for definite direct objects. Example:
“kitobni oʻqidim” (I read the book).
Dative Case: Expressed with the suffix “-ga” for indirect objects or direction.
Example: “doʻstga maktub” (a letter to a friend).
Genitive Case: While not marked by a specific suffix, possession is indicated through
possessive suffixes.
Locative Case: Indicated by the suffix “-da” for location. Example: “maktabda” (at
school).
Ablative Case: Shown by “-dan” for movement away from something. Example:
“Toshkentdan” (from Tashkent).
Practice Exercises
1. Identifying Nouns: Given a list of Uzbek nouns, classify them as proper or common
nouns.
2. Forming Plural and Possessive Forms: Convert a set of singular nouns to their plural
forms and then to their possessive forms, applying the standard suffixes.
3. Applying Cases: Provide examples of nouns in different case forms, especially focusing
on the accusative, dative, and locative, using appropriate suffixes.
4. Expressing Possession and Location: Construct sentences that express possession and
location, highlighting the use of possessive and locative suffixes.
Conclusion
Understanding Uzbek nouns and their grammatical rules is essential for effectively communicating in
Uzbek. The language’s system of agglutination, the straightforward approach to number and
possession, and the minimal use of cases offer a coherent framework for expression. Regular
practice, engagement with native speakers, and immersion in Uzbek texts will enhance language
proficiency and deepen cultural understanding.