what is it?
The plural suffix -lar or -ler attaches to nouns to indicate more than one. The form you use depends on vowel harmony: -lar follows back vowels (a, ı, o, u) and -ler follows front vowels (e, i, ö, ü).
when to use it
When you want to express that there is more than one of something without specifying an exact number.
When referring to groups or categories in general.
Do not use -lar/-ler after numerals (bir, iki, üç, etc.) or most quantifiers (birkaç, çok, az, etc.). The noun stays singular in these cases.
formation
Add the appropriate suffix to the noun based on the last vowel:
| last vowel in noun | suffix | example |
|---|---|---|
| a, ı, o, u (back) | -lar | kitap → kitaplar |
| e, i, ö, ü (front) | -ler | göz → gözler |
After a numeral or quantifier, the noun remains singular: üç kitap (three books), beş elma (five apples), birkaç öğrenci (a few students).
examples in context
common pitfalls
Adding -lAr after numerals or quantifiers. The noun stays singular when a number or quantifier precedes it. Say üç kitap, not üç kitaplar. Similarly, birkaç öğrenci, not birkaç öğrenciler.
Choosing the wrong harmonized form. Always check the last vowel in the noun. Front vowels (e, i, ö, ü) take -ler; back vowels (a, ı, o, u) take -lar. Say gözler (eyes), not gözlar.
Three sentences, graded here. Nothing is saved and no account is needed.
Odada üç ___ oturuyor. (kadın)
Fill in the blank with the correct plural form of the word in parentheses.