ni- (16_Verbs_Aspectual Distinction (Root vs. Ů))
ni-
Grammatical function
- Type: Modal Prefix (Auxiliary Root)
- Meaning: To start to, to begin; marks the beginning of an action or the entry into a state.
Usage Note
- Position: Attaches to the front of the main verb root, following Tense and Negation prefixes.
- Morphophonology (Bridge Rule): Because this prefix ends in a vowel (-i), if the following main verb root begins with a vowel, the hiatus-breaking bridge -x- must be inserted.
- Example:
ni+ijo(see) → nixijo.
- Example:
- Context: Often implies the preparatory phase or the very moment of initiation (e.g., “I start to leave” can imply “I am gathering my things”).
Structure
[Tense] - [Negation] - ni - [Root]
Pronunciation
IPA: /ni/
Example sentence
Wo nixoxo. I start to leave / I am about to depart.
| Asaxi | Wo | ni-xoxo |
|---|---|---|
| Morphemes | wo | ni - xoxo |
| Gloss | 1SG | INC-depart |
Alternative Forms
- x
Antonyms
- tomo’ (To stop / cease - Note: functions as a post-verbal auxiliary).
Similar terms
- ni (To/Towards - Source of the meaning “moving towards action”).