Emphasizing an Object
Independent object + ni + subject + predicate.
How It Works
An ordinary object follows its verb. Object focus selects that participant by placing an independent pronoun before ni, followed by the subject and predicate. Independent forms include èmi, ìwọ, òun, àwa, ẹ̀yin, àwọn. Compare Adé fẹ́ mi, ‘Adé wants me’, with Èmi ni Adé fẹ́, ‘It is me that Adé wants’.
The actor stays after ni. Ordinary object focus leaves the postverbal object position unfilled rather than repeating a short object there. Subject focus has a different frame with subject resumption, so the fronted pronoun's role comes from the whole clause. Preserve the verb's construction-appropriate tone; these examples use high-tone fẹ́. Pronouns do not acquire gender agreement. This frame does not establish that independent forms can freely replace short objects in every ordinary postverbal environment.
Examples (3)
- Èmi ni Adé fẹ́.
It is me that Adé wants.
Èmi is the selected object; Adé is the actor.
- Ìwọ ni mo fẹ́.
You are the one I want.
Mo remains the subject after ni.
- Àwa ni Bísí fẹ́.
It is us that Bísí wants.
Àwa is the plural focused object.
How It Connects
Learn This First
A focused object pronoun precedes ni; the actor follows it.
Related Patterns
Practice Emphasizing an Object in Bubblegum
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