You have been learning Latvian for some time, and you can understand it to some extent when you read texts and listen to people talk. That’s great! However, when it comes to speaking Latvian… well, it might not be enough.
If you’re worried that you sound like a primary school student who barely puts together their thoughts when speaking, then you’re missing something: conjunctions in Latvian. Luckily, this article will teach you common conjunctions in the Latvian language and how to use them correctly in sentences.
What Are Conjunctions?
Before you start learning conjunctions in Latvian, let’s make sure you understand conjunctions in general.
Conjunctions are words that connect two words, phrases, or clauses, helping you create a smooth transition between sentences. They play a crucial role in the structure and flow of a sequence of sentences.
There are many reasons why you should include conjunctions in your speech. They can help you express your thoughts coherently, connect sentences that argue opposite ideas, and provide examples in a logical order. More importantly, they help you sound fluent and smooth when you speak.
Learn Latvian Conjunctions
If we are on the same page about how important conjunctions are in a language, we can narrow down the topic and start learning Latvian conjunctions, which are called savienojumi.
Coordinating Conjunctions
Coordinating conjunctions are used to connect words or phrases of equal importance. For example, with coordinating conjunctions, you can join two words or phrases, such as un (and), which can connect es (I) and tu (you), to say es un tu (I and you).
Here are some common Latvian coordinating conjunctions:
| English | Latvian | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| And | Un | This conjunction is used to connect two words or clauses that express a similar idea. | Es mācos latviešu valodu un rakstu vēstules. (I am learning the Latvian language and writing letters.) |
| But | Bet | This conjunction is used to express a contrast between two different ideas. | Viņš ēd kūku, bet viņa dzer tēju. (He is eating cake, but she is drinking tea.) |
| Or | Vai | This conjunction is used to offer choices and alternatives. | Vai tu dzīvo Rīgā vai Liepājā? (Do you live in Riga or Liepaja?) |
| Because | Jo | This conjunction is used to explain a reason. | Es mācos, jo gribu uzņemties darbu Latvijā. (I am learning because I want to work in Latvia.) |
Subordinating Conjunctions
Subordinating conjunctions in Latvian introduce a dependent clause (also known as a subordinate clause) and establish a relationship between it and the main clause. For example, with a conjunction like kad (when), you can introduce a time-related condition, as in kad es iegrimu grāmatā (when I get lost in a book).
Here are a few examples:
| English | Latvian | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| When | Kad | It refers to a specific time or event. | Kad es iegrimu grāmatā, aizmirstu par laiku. (When I get lost in a book, I forget about time.) |
| If | Ja | It expresses a condition or a hypothetical situation. | Ja tu mācies, tad tu progresē. (If you study, then you make progress.) |
| So that | Lai | It indicates a purpose or intention. | Es mācos latviešu valodu, lai varētu komunicēt ar vietējiem. (I am learning the Latvian language so that I can communicate with locals.) |
| Although | Lai gan | It shows a contrast or contradiction between two sentences. | Lai gan ir auksts, es ārā pastaigājos. (Although it’s cold, I go for a walk outside.) |
How To Use Conjunctions In Latvian Sentences
To use conjunctions effectively in Latvian sentences, you need to understand their specific functions and placement. Coordinating conjunctions are generally placed between the words or phrases they connect. Subordinating conjunctions introduce dependent clauses, and their placement depends on the context of the sentence.
Tips For Mastering Latvian Conjunctions
Practice makes perfect! And it’s the key to mastering Latvian conjunctions, like any other aspect of the language. Reading, writing, and speaking in Latvian will help you become more comfortable using conjunctions naturally. Ways you can study conjunctions in Latvian include:
- Create your own sentences using conjunctions.
- Read Latvian texts and pay attention to how conjunctions are used.
- Practice with a language partner or tutor to receive feedback.
List Of Conjunctions In Latvian
We’ve explained some conjunctions, but there are much more than those! You can find more Latvian conjunctions in the table below.
| English | Latvian |
|---|---|
| Although | Pat ja |
| And | Un |
| And Yet | Un tomēr |
| As | Kā |
| As if | Kā tad |
| As long as | Kamēr |
| As soon as | Tiklīdz |
| As though in | It kā |
| Because | Jo |
| But | Bet |
| Even if | Pat ja |
| However | Tomēr |
| If | Ja |
| In Case | Gadījumā |
| In fact | Patiesībā |
| In order that | Tādēļ, lai |
| In order to | Lai |
| Or | Vai |
| Otherwise | Citadi |
| Since | Jo |
| So that | Lai |
| Therefore | Tāpēc |
| When | Kad |
| While | Kamēr |
Wrapping Up
Conjunctions are an integral part of the Latvian grammar. Understanding and using them effectively can significantly improve your conversational skills.
So, get out there and start using these conjunctions to sound more fluent when you speak Latvian!
Start Learning Latvian With Ling!
Want to learn the Latvian language or other Baltic languages? Ling has got you covered!
The Ling app is designed to help all who are passionate about learning a new language. It has various interactive exercises, such as writing and listening, mini quizzes, and an AI chatbot to practice your speaking skills. As such, it offers everything you need to enhance your language skills.
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P. S.: Drop by Ling’s Latvian blog weekly for informative blog articles about this language and culture!
