Definition

This term describes a grammatical case used in certain languages, where it indicates the subject of an intransitive verb or the object of a transitive verb.

Example

In ergative languages, the absolutive case is used for the subject of intransitive verbs and the object of transitive verbs.

Conversation

I was reading about different grammatical structures the other day.

Oh really? What caught your interest?

I found the concept of the absolutive case in ergative languages fascinating.

That does sound interesting! I've never learned about that before.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A grammatical term referring to a form of a noun or pronoun that typically indicates the subject of an intransitive verb or the object of a transitive verb in certain languages.

Example

In some languages, the absolutive is used to indicate the subject of an intransitive verb or the object of a transitive verb.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the term absolutive?

Yeah, I think it relates to language structure, right?

Exactly! It describes a specific case in some languages.

Root Explanation

Absolutive → It is formed from "ab-" (meaning away from) and "solvere" (meaning to loosen or free). The word "absolutive" refers to a grammatical case that indicates the subject of an intransitive verb or the object of a transitive verb, essentially freeing the subject from further grammatical obligations.

Memory Tip

Think of 'loosening' or 'freeing' ('solvere') something 'away from' ('ab-') — that's why 'absolutive' relates to a grammatical case that indicates freedom from further obligations.

Visually Confused Words