Definition

Relating to a type of language where the subject of an intransitive verb and the object of a transitive verb are marked the same way, while the subject of a transitive verb is marked differently.

Example

Georgian is an ergative language, which means it has a unique way of marking subjects and objects in sentences.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

Have you ever heard of ergative languages like Georgian?

Yeah, I read about them in a linguistics class.

It's fascinating how they mark subjects differently, isn't it?

Absolutely! It really changes how we think about grammar.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A grammatical term referring to a noun or pronoun that indicates the subject of a transitive verb in certain languages, often contrasting with the absolutive case.

Example

In some languages, the ergative case marks the subject of a transitive verb, while the absolutive case marks the subject of an intransitive verb.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the term ergative?

No, I can't say that I have. What does it mean?

It's a grammatical term related to how some languages structure their sentences, particularly with the ergative case.

Root Explanation

Ergative is derived from the Greek word "ergon" (meaning work) and the suffix "-ative" (indicating a tendency or relating to). The term refers to a grammatical case that marks the subject of a transitive verb, emphasizing the role of the agent in performing an action, thus relating to the concept of work or action.

Memory Tip

Think of 'ergon' meaning work, and remember that 'ergative' relates to the subject performing an action in a sentence.

Visually Confused Words