in / idan
If and When
A condition supplies the situation on which a consequence depends.
How It Works
In and idan introduce conditions or occasions. The condition commonly precedes its consequence. Sai ‘then’ can introduce a procedural result, but is not required in every conditional sentence.
A completive condition presents a prerequisite as complete when the consequence applies. Idan na gama aiki, zan kira ki concerns finishing work before a future call. English can therefore use ‘when I finish’.
A planned event can use za inside the condition: In za ka tafi ‘If you are going to leave’. Retain subject marking in both clauses. The indefinite future can express a qualified consequence after a condition; it does not freely replace za inside the condition. Expectation and possibility help determine ‘when’ versus ‘if’.
Examples (3)
- Idan ruwa ya yi zafi, sai ku zuba shayi.
When the water has become hot, add tea.
A completed prerequisite precedes a plural instruction.
- In za ka tafi, ka ɗauki jakarka.
If you are going to leave, take your bag.
The condition presents a plan.
- Idan na gama aiki, zan kira ki.
When I finish work, I will call you, addressing a woman.
Completion is evaluated before the future call.
How It Connects
Learn This First
Recognize dependent instruction subjects and attached listener possession before pairing a condition or plan with an instruction involving the listener’s item. In Idan na gama aiki, zan kira ki, zan is first-person future marking and final ki is the short direct-object pronoun addressing one female listener, distinct from subjunctive subject ki.
- Intended and Directed Actions
Recognize dependent instruction subjects and attached listener possession before pairing a condition or plan with an instruction involving the listener’s item. In Idan na gama aiki, zan kira ki, zan is first-person future marking and final ki is the short direct-object pronoun addressing one female listener, distinct from subjunctive subject ki.
Level 3 - -ka / -ki / -sa / -taYour, His and Her
Recognize dependent instruction subjects and attached listener possession before pairing a condition or plan with an instruction involving the listener’s item. In Idan na gama aiki, zan kira ki, zan is first-person future marking and final ki is the short direct-object pronoun addressing one female listener, distinct from subjunctive subject ki.
Level 2
Related Patterns
- za + subject pronounFuture Plans
Marks plans within conditions.
Level 1 - Indefinite future -aAn Expected or Possible Future
Expresses qualified consequences.
Level 5 - Completion Without Past Time
Explains future prerequisites.
Level 5 - ko daEven if or if by Chance
Contrasts ordinary conditions with concession.
Level 4
Learn Next
Patterns that build on this one.
Words in This Pattern
Practice in / idan in Bubblegum
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