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What type of compound word consists of a primary word followed by a genitive case suffix and a secondary word describing the primary word indirectly?
What type of compound word consists of a primary word followed by a genitive case suffix and a secondary word describing the primary word indirectly?
In which type of compound word are two nouns joined together without any conjunction, with one in the genitive case implying the primary word indirectly?
In which type of compound word are two nouns joined together without any conjunction, with one in the genitive case implying the primary word indirectly?
Which compound word type indicates a relationship of 'having the function of' or 'being responsible for'?
Which compound word type indicates a relationship of 'having the function of' or 'being responsible for'?
Which type of compound word consists of two nouns joined together with a conjunction, one in the genitive case?
Which type of compound word consists of two nouns joined together with a conjunction, one in the genitive case?
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In which compound does the secondary word imply the primary word indirectly through the use of a genitive case suffix?
In which compound does the secondary word imply the primary word indirectly through the use of a genitive case suffix?
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In a Tatpuruṣa Samas compound, which word is considered the primary word?
In a Tatpuruṣa Samas compound, which word is considered the primary word?
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Which compound type emphasizes duality and uses the conjunction 'यट्' (yaṭ) to signify 'and' or 'both'?
Which compound type emphasizes duality and uses the conjunction 'यट्' (yaṭ) to signify 'and' or 'both'?
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What is the purpose of using Dvandva Samas compounds in Sanskrit?
What is the purpose of using Dvandva Samas compounds in Sanskrit?
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In a Bahuvrihi Samas compound, what kind of relationship exists between the compound elements?
In a Bahuvrihi Samas compound, what kind of relationship exists between the compound elements?
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Which type of compound uses a dependent noun or adjective to describe the primary word?
Which type of compound uses a dependent noun or adjective to describe the primary word?
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Study Notes
Sanskrit Compounds: Exploring Samas
In the rich and complex world of Sanskrit grammar, a key feature is its capacity to create elaborate and nuanced compounds called Samās. These compounds allow for the expression of ideas and concepts that would be difficult to convey through simple words alone. In this article, we'll delve into specific types of compounds, focusing on Dvandva Samas, Tatpuruṣa Samas, Bahuvrihi Samas, Avyayibhava Samas, and Karmadharaya Samas.
Dvandva Samas
Dvandva Samas (द्वन्द्वसमास) are compound words that consist of two nouns or adjectives joined together with the conjunction यट् (yaṭ) to indicate a relationship of 'and' or 'both.' For example, sūrya-candra (सूर्य-चन्द्र) translates to 'sun and moon.' These compounds often emphasize duality, and the conjunction alone does not indicate whether the two elements are joined as opposites or complements.
Tatpuruṣa Samas
Tatpuruṣa Samas (तत्-पुरुष) are compound words that consist of a primary word (known as the tatpuruṣa) and a secondary word that modifies or describes it. The secondary word is typically a dependent noun or adjective that comes before the primary word. For example, mātā-devatā (माता-देवता) translates to 'mother deity.' In this compound, mātā (mother) is the primary word, and devatā (deity) is the secondary word that describes the primary word.
Bahuvrihi Samas
Bahuvrihi Samas (बहुव्रीहि) are compound words that consist of a primary word followed by a genitive case suffix (such as -asya, -āya, or -inām) and a secondary word that describes the primary word in a roundabout way. This type of compound does not directly name the primary word but rather implies it through the secondary word. For example, duṣṭa-kṛta (दुष्ट-कृत) translates to 'evil-done,' implying the action of doing something evil. In this compound, the secondary word kṛta (done) is preceded by the genitive case suffix -asya, implying a done-by relationship with the primary word duṣṭa (evil).
Avyayibhava Samas
Avyayibhava Samas (अव्ययिभवसमास) are compound words that consist of two nouns joined together without any conjunction, one of which is in the genitive case. The meaning of this compound is similar to the Bahuvrihi Samas, in that the secondary word implies the primary word indirectly. For example, śakti-śaktimat (शक्ति-शक्तिमत्) translates to 'possessing power.' In this compound, the secondary word śaktimat (powerful) is preceded by the genitive case suffix -mat of the primary word śakti (power).
Karmadharaya Samas
Karmadharaya Samas (कर्मधारय) are compound words that consist of two nouns joined together with a conjunction, one of which is in the genitive case. This type of compound indicates a relationship of 'having the function of' or 'being responsible for.' For example, devatā-śāstra (देवता-शास्त्र) translates to 'scripture pertaining to the deity.' In this compound, the secondary word śāstra (scripture) is preceded by the genitive case suffix -tā of the primary word devatā (deity), indicating that the scripture is related to the deity.
These are just a few examples of the many types of Sanskrit compounds that exist, each with its own set of rules and nuances. These compounds serve to express complex ideas and relationships that would be difficult to convey through simple words alone, making Sanskrit a rich and versatile language. As you explore these compounds, remember to avoid hyperbole and exaggeration, and instead focus on the factual and informative aspects of Sanskrit grammar.
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Description
Explore the intricacies of Sanskrit grammar by delving into different types of compounds known as Samas. Learn about Dvandva Samas, Tatpuruṣa Samas, Bahuvrihi Samas, Avyayibhava Samas, and Karmadharaya Samas, each with its unique rules and nuances.
