Turkish grammar: olmak fiili

What this grammar point covers

In Turkish, 'olmak' is a verb that means 'to be' or 'to become.' At the beginner level, it is often used to talk about someone's job, identity, age, or changes in state.

When to use it

Use 'olmak' to say what someone is, what they become, or to describe changes. It is used for professions, ages, nationalities, and when something changes from one state to another.

Key forms

• olmak (infinitive)
• -im, -sin, -dir, -iz, -siniz, -dirler (present tense suffixes for 'to be')
• oldum, oldun, oldu, olduk, oldunuz, oldular (past tense forms)

Examples

Tips

• In the present tense, 'olmak' is usually not written as a separate word. Instead, use the correct suffix.
• For the past tense, use 'oldu' and its forms as a separate word.
• Do not use 'olmak' with adjectives in the present tense; just use the correct suffix.