Navigation:
Grammatical Concept: Time-Binding Modifiers
In Asaxi, Tense and Aspect are not restricted to the main verb. Specific particles can attach to Nouns, Adjectives, or Adverbs to define the temporal nature of that specific word, independent of the sentence’s main timeline.
1. The Particles
| Particle | Meaning | Logic | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| sỏni | Once / Former / Ex- | sỏ (Past) + ni | Something that was X, but has changed state. |
| pỏni | Soon-to-be / Prospective | pỏ (Imm. Future) + ni | Something that is not yet X, but is transitioning into it. |
2. Syntax (Floating Position)
These particles function as Floating Modifiers. They can appear before or after the element they modify.
- Pre-Position (
sỏni-X): Standard modification.- Example: To śýstèm sỏnigavină. (“This system is [once-good].“) → It used to be good.
- Post-Position (
X-sỏni): Dramatic or emphatic modification.- Example: To śýstèm gavinăsỏni. (“This system… good-used-to-be.“) → Same meaning, different rhythm.
3. Usage by Category
A. Adjectives (Past Quality)
sỏnidănă “Once-big” / “Formerly huge.” Usage: Describes an object that has shrunk or lost its status.
B. Nouns (Former Role)
sỏnishějýnshá “Ex-teacher” / “Former teacher.”
C. Verbs (Adverbial Tense)
To wo sỏni aśù. “I walk [as I once did].” (Modifies the manner).