Turkish grammar: Zaman uyumu

What this grammar point covers

In Turkish, 'zaman uyumu' means 'tense harmony'. It refers to using the same or compatible tenses in main and subordinate clauses within a sentence. This helps sentences sound natural and logical.

When to use it

Use tense harmony when you connect two clauses, especially with words like 'eğer' (if), 'çünkü' (because), or 'ki' (that). The tenses in both parts should match or be logically connected.

Key forms

• Eğer + geçmiş zaman, ... geçmiş zaman: Eğer geldiyse, gördü.
• Eğer + şimdiki zaman, ... şimdiki zaman: Eğer geliyorsa, görüyor.
• Eğer + gelecek zaman, ... gelecek zaman: Eğer gelecekse, görecek.

Examples

Tips

• Try to keep the tenses the same in both clauses unless there is a special reason to change.
• In indirect speech, you often need to shift the tense in the second clause to match the main verb.
• Pay attention to time expressions (like 'dün', 'yarın') to choose the correct tense.

Exceptions and edge cases

• Sometimes, for emphasis or style, Turkish speakers may intentionally break tense harmony, but this is rare.