Introduction to Lithuanian Noun Declension
In Lithuanian, nouns change their form depending on their role in a sentence. This is called declension. There are seven cases in Lithuanian, each serving a different purpose.
Important Points
- Nominative
- Genitive
- Dative
- Accusative
- Instrumental
- Locative
- Vocative
Each case has a specific function. For example, the nominative case is used for the subject of a sentence, and the genitive case often shows possession.
The nominative case is the basic form of the noun. It is used for the subject of a sentence.
Examples
- Katė yra miela. (The cat is cute.)
- Vaikas žaidžia. (The child is playing.)
The genitive case is often used to show possession or to describe something related to another noun.
Examples
- Katės žaislas. (The cat's toy.)
- Vaiko knyga. (The child's book.)
The dative case is used to indicate the indirect object of a verb, often showing to whom or for whom something is given.
Examples
- Duodu katėi žuvį. (I give fish to the cat.)
- Rašau vaikui laišką. (I write a letter to the child.)
The accusative case is used for the direct object of a verb, showing what is being acted upon.
Examples
- Matau katę. (I see the cat.)
- Skaitau knygą. (I read the book.)
The instrumental case shows the means by which an action is performed.
Examples
- Rašau plunksna. (I write with a pen.)
- Kalbu lietuviškai. (I speak Lithuanian.)
The locative case indicates a location or place where an action occurs.
Examples
- Gyvenu mieste. (I live in the city.)
- Esu mokykloje. (I am at school.)
The vocative case is used for addressing or calling someone or something directly.
Examples
- Ei, kate! (Hey, cat!)
- Labas, drauge! (Hello, friend!)