Grammar and Sentence Structure
Grammar and sentence structure tests whether you can parse and produce Tai sentences using Tai categories rather than English ones: word order, classifiers, particles, negation and question formation.
Core patterns
The basic clause is Subject–Verb–Object. Tai is analytic: nouns and verbs do not take English-style plural or tense endings. Number is shown by numerals and classifiers, and time or aspect by particles or adverbs. Adjectives typically follow the noun they modify, and possessors follow the possessed noun. Negation is marked by a negative particle placed before the verb or predicate. Yes/no questions often use a sentence-final question particle rather than a changed word order.
Worked example
Translate “I see two birds.” Start with the subject “I”, then the verb “see”, then the noun “bird”. Because “two” counts the noun, add the numeral and the appropriate classifier for birds or animals; do not add a plural suffix. If the sentence is about a completed action, add the completive particle rather than changing the verb. The result follows [subject] [verb] [noun] [numeral] [classifier], with the particle in its prescribed slot.
Traps
Writing “birds” with an English plural; putting adjectives before nouns; omitting the classifier; translating “will” and “did” as verb endings; placing the negative after the verb; and confusing a question particle with a polite particle.