nítorí + Noun
Because of Something
Main clause + nítorí + noun phrase: the phrase names the reason.
How It Works
Place nítorí before the whole noun phrase naming the reason. That phrase can include a modifier or possessor: nítorí iṣẹ́ mi means “because of my work.” In the examples below, the reason follows the main statement. Neither nítorí nor the verb takes a person or number ending; subject and possessive pronouns identify the participants.
Compare nítorí òjò, “because of rain,” with nítorí pé òjò ń rọ̀, “because it is raining.” The first names a circumstance; the second states a proposition. Both explain a reason, while an intended result requires a purpose construction. Keep nítorí in ordinary Standard Nigerian Yoruba spelling, with its tone marks. This entry teaches the reason use; the meaning of a particular reason still depends on the surrounding statement.
Examples (3)
- A dúró ní ilé nítorí òjò.
We stayed at home because of the rain.
Òjò names the cause after nítorí.
- Bísí kò lọ sí ilé-ìwé nítorí àìsàn.
Bísí did not go to school because of illness.
Àìsàn names the reason for the negative situation.
- Mo wá sí ìlú yìí nítorí iṣẹ́ mi.
I came to this town because of my work.
Mi follows iṣẹ́ within the reason phrase.
Related Patterns
- nítorí péGiving a Reason
Introduces a complete causal clause.
Level 2 - kí ló déAsking Why
Asks why; a nítorí phrase can answer with a reason.
Level 1 - Naming the Owner
Builds reason phrases containing an owner or associated participant.
Level 1 - kí ... lèAn Intended Result
Expresses an intended possibility rather than a named cause.
Level 2
Practice nítorí + Noun in Bubblegum
Poppy, your AI tutor, writes Yoruba lessons at your level. Tap any grammar point in a lesson to see its full explanation.
