Turkish grammar: yönelme hali

What this grammar point covers

The 'yönelme hali' (dative case) in Turkish is used to show direction towards someone or something. It answers the question 'to where?' or 'to whom?'.

When to use it

Use the yönelme hali when you want to say you are going to a place, giving something to someone, or moving towards something in Turkish.

Key forms

• Add -a or -e to the end of a noun, depending on vowel harmony.
• If the noun ends in a vowel, use -ya or -ye.
• If the noun ends in a consonant, use -a or -e.

Examples

Tips

• Remember to use vowel harmony: use -a/-ya after a, ı, o, u; use -e/-ye after e, i, ö, ü.
• If the noun ends in a vowel, add -y- before the suffix (-ya/-ye).
• Don't forget to use the correct suffix when showing direction or giving something to someone.

Exceptions and edge cases

• Some place names or personal names may not follow the usual vowel harmony, especially if they are foreign words.