bait-

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See also: bait

Basque

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Alternative forms

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  • bai- (see usage notes)

Etymology

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(This etymology is missing or incomplete. Please add to it, or discuss it at the Etymology scriptorium.)

Pronunciation

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  • IPA(key): /bai̯t/, [bai̯t̪]

Conjunction

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bait-

  1. because, since
    Gose gara, ez baitugu janaririk.
    We're hungry because we don't have any food.
  2. who, which

Usage notes

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  • When attached to verbs beginning with d-, the initial d- is deleted.
    bait- + ‎da (it is) → ‎baita (since it is).
  • When attached to verbs beginning with g-, the initial g- is devoiced to -k-.
    bait- + ‎gara (we are) → ‎baikara (since we are).
  • When attached to verbs beginning with z-, the initial z- is affricated to -tz-.
    bait- + ‎zara (you are) → ‎baitzara (since you are).
  • In other cases, the alternative form bai- is used.
    bait- + ‎naiz (I am) → ‎bainaiz (since I am).

Further reading

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  • bait-”, in Orotariko Euskal Hiztegia [General Basque Dictionary], Euskaltzaindia, 1987–2005