Language/Rundi/Grammar/Using-Conjunctions
| ◀️ Using Prepositions — Previous Lesson | Next Lesson — Modes of Transportation ▶️ |
In this lesson, you will learn how to use conjunctions in Rundi to connect words, phrases, and clauses in sentences.
Understanding Conjunctions
Conjunctions are words used to connect words, phrases, and clauses in a sentence. They are an essential part of speech, as they help organize ideas and make sentences clear.
In Rundi, conjunctions can be divided into two main categories: coordinating conjunctions and subordinating conjunctions.
Coordinating Conjunctions
Coordinating conjunctions are used to connect two or more elements in a sentence that are equal in importance. In Rundi, the most common coordinating conjunctions are:
- Na - and
- Ni - or
- Canke - but
Here are a few examples:
| Rundi | English |
|---|---|
| Ntituye cane na ndugu yanjye | I have one sister and one brother |
| Mbere y'uko njye mu kanisa, nzajamuka cane | Before I go to church, I sing a little |
| Mbere y'uko nza kubikira ibisigazabuhoro, sinanditse cane | Before I give up smoking, it will be very hard for me |
Subordinating Conjunctions
Subordinating conjunctions are used to connect two clauses in a sentence where one clause is dependent on the other. In Rundi, the most common subordinating conjunctions are:
- Kuko - because
- Kandi - and also
- Kugira ngo - in order to
Here are a few examples:
| Rundi | English |
|---|---|
| Ntibyaje kuko yari asanga | It's not his fault because he didn't know |
| Nkuko nawe yavuze, none n'abandi bantu babiri babifitiye akazi | Like he said, me and two other people were interested in the job |
| Arikubahirizire kugira ngo abandi bashime cyane | He is working hard in order to impress others |
Using Conjunctions in Rundi Sentences
When using conjunctions in Rundi sentences, it is important to remember a few simple rules:
1. Use coordinating conjunctions to connect two or more elements that are equal in importance. 2. Use subordinating conjunctions to connect two clauses in a sentence where one clause is dependent on the other. 3. Be sure to place the conjunction in the correct place within the sentence.
Let's review some examples:
- Ndavuga Kinyarwanda na Rundi - I speak Kinyarwanda and Rundi (coordinating conjunction)
- Ngo mbabarire cane kuko nifuza kubona umunsi umwe - I study hard because I want to see one day. (subordinating conjunction)
- Ntaho kuba mubazwa canke mubakora - Either to be born stupid or to become stupid. (coordinating conjunction)
It is important to remember to use conjunctions in Rundi sentences, as they can help organize ideas and make sentences clear.
Conclusion
In this lesson, you have learned about the two main categories of conjunctions in Rundi: coordinating conjunctions and subordinating conjunctions. You have also learned how to use conjunctions in Rundi sentences to connect words, phrases, and clauses. By following the rules outlined in this lesson, you will be able to organize your ideas and communicate clearly in Rundi.
Remember to practice using conjunctions in Rundi, and refer back to this lesson as often as needed.
Other Lessons
- Asking Questions
- Describing with Adverbs
- Negating Sentences
- Give your Opinion
- Conditional Mood
- How to Use Have
- 0 to A1 Course
- Questions
- Present Tense
Sources
- Kinyarwanda and Kirundi Comparative Grammar
- Rundi Grammar - Questions and Negation - Negating Sentences
| ◀️ Using Prepositions — Previous Lesson | Next Lesson — Modes of Transportation ▶️ |