anake

Only

Level 5

Place anake after the participant or identifying expression being restricted.

How It Works

Anake follows an expression whose relevant alternatives are excluded. In a mā phrase it can restrict the intended recipient; in an identifying expression it can identify the sole relevant item. It retains the surrounding grammar and has no number-agreement forms.

The first example limits the intended recipient to Mere. The second identifies the sole book that is wanted. The third identifies the sole available room. English “only” must therefore reflect the scope established by the Māori phrase and its context.

Compare Ko tēnei te pukapuka e hiahiatia ana, “This is the book that is wanted,” with its anake version below. The latter adds exclusivity. These participant and identifying uses do not establish unrestricted placement throughout every verb phrase or location expression. To restrict responsibility specifically, use the complete actor-emphatic construction in the related entry.

Examples (3)

  1. Mā Mere anake tēnei keke.

    This cake is only for Mere.

    The restriction concerns the intended recipient.

  2. Ko tēnei anake te pukapuka e hiahiatia ana.

    This is the only book that is wanted.

    Anake makes the identifying claim exclusive.

  3. Ko tērā anake te rūma e wātea ana.

    That is the only room that is available.

    The relevant alternatives are available rooms.

How It Connects

Tap a pattern to see what it builds on and what it leads to.

anakeLevel 5Only

Learn This First

Develop restriction beyond responsible actors to intended recipients and exclusive identifications. Locate the relevant alternatives through phrase structure and context, without claiming unrestricted placement or equating exclusivity with physical solitude.