Language/Lingala/Grammar/Plurals

Lingala Grammar - Plurals

Hi Lingala learners! 😊
In this lesson, we will study the Lingala plural. Pluralization is a very common aspect of languages, and Lingala is not an exception. By learning how to form plurals in Lingala, you will be able to communicate more efficiently with native speakers.

Introduction

In Lingala, as in many other languages, the plural refers to more than one entity, object, or idea. For instance, the singular of the word "tree" is "moléki," while the plural is "biléki." Understanding plurals is crucial to conveying information and ideas clearly and effectively in Lingala.

Once you've mastered this lesson, take a look at these related pages: Present Tense, Verb to be, Irregular Verbs & The Imperative Mood.

Formation of the Plural in Lingala

In general, Lingala words form their plurals by adding specific affixes to the end of the word. Most Lingala nouns add the suffix "-ma" to form plural nouns. For example, the word "nsómbo" (fish) becomes "misómbo" in the plural form. Let's look at more examples:

Lingala	Pronunciation	English
ngai	ŋáɪ	Me
bato	bátó	People
moto	móto	Person
bolingo	bólingó	Love

A few Lingala words form their plurals by doubling the final syllable of the word, such as in the noun "kolóyi" (car), which becomes "kolóyíkolóyi" in the plural. Here are some more examples:

Lingala	Pronunciation	English
mpasi	mpásî	Mistake
nsoni	nsónî	Lie
mingi	míngî	Plenty

Other Lingala words have irregular plural forms, such as "étoile" (star), which becomes "matoíle" in the plural form. Here are some more examples:

Lingala	Pronunciation	English
libóso	libósô	Book
lokóto	lokótô	Bone
mwáná	mwáná	Child

If you are not sure how to form the plural form of a Lingala word, don't hesitate to ask native speakers on Polyglot Club or check our Lingala Grammar section on the website.

Plurals and Culture

Understanding plurals can also give you insight into Lingala culture. In many African cultures, as well as in Lingala culture, family and community are vital. The use of plurals in Lingala signifies togetherness and belonging to a community. For instance, the word "bateké" means "people." It is often used to describe a group of individuals who share common experiences and values.

Examples in Context

Here is a dialogue to help you understand plurals in Lingala:

• Person 1: "Motéma na ngai ewutaka lisusu." (I told my friends a secret.)
• Person 2: "Bato bozali nakati na ngáí, esi?" (Are all people angry with me?)
• Person 1: "Te, mibéna." (No, they love you.)

Notice how the word "bato" changes to "mibéna" in the response. This indicates that the speaker is referring to a specific group of individuals - the speaker's friends.

Conclusion

In conclusion, mastering the plural in Lingala is essential for effective communication with native speakers. By using the appropriate affixes and forms to create plurals, you can convey ideas and information accurately in Lingala. Additionally, understanding the importance of plurals in Lingala culture can provide insight into the values and experiences of this African community.

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➡ If you have any questions, please ask them in the comments section below.
➡ Feel free to edit this wiki page if you think it can be improved. 😎

Sources

• Lingala/Grammar - LING073

• African Culture
• Noun Plural

Having concluded this lesson, consider checking out these related pages: Present progressive tense, Gender, Irregular verbs – koya – to come & Irregular verbs – kokende – to go.

Other Lessons

• Prepositions
• Present progressive tense
• Create simple sentences in the negative
• How to Use Be
• Verb To Have and To Be
• Irregular verbs – kokende – to go
• Nouns
• The Imperative Mood
• The Future Tense To Be
• Questions