ti / tí Contrast
Aspect and Relative Meaning
Subject + ti + predicate marks a reached situation; a nominal expression + tí + clause adds a relative description.
How It Works
Aspectual ti follows the subject and precedes the predicate. It presents a situation as reached by a reference time. English may use “has,” “had,” or “already,” depending on context. With ń, it can describe an ongoing activity already begun without asserting that the entire activity is finished.
Relative tí introduces a description of a preceding nominal expression. In a subject relative, a pronoun can refer back to the participant described. In an object relative, the clause identifies the actor while the preceding nominal supplies the object. Neither marker receives person or number endings. Compare Ìwé náà ti bàjẹ́, “The book is already damaged,” with the fragment ìwé tí ó ti bàjẹ́, “a book that is already damaged.” Both markers occur in the fragment. Genitival mid-tone ti expresses possession in a separate construction.
Examples (3)
- Adé ti ra bàtà.
Adé has bought shoes.
Aspectual ti presents the purchase as reached.
- Ìwé tí mo rà wà ní ilé.
The book that I bought is at home.
Tí introduces an object relative; mo identifies the buyer.
- Ọmọ tí ó ti jẹun fẹ́ sùn.
The child who has eaten wants to sleep.
The relative description contains aspectual ti.
How It Connects
Learn This First
Mid-tone ti marks a reached situation; high-tone tí introduces a relative description.
Related Patterns
Practice ti / tí Contrast in Bubblegum
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