Belirli

Belirli is a Turkish adjective meaning definite, specific, or certain. It is used to indicate that a noun refers to a particular member of a group rather than to any member. In Turkish, the word typically precedes the noun it modifies, forming constructions such as belirli bir gün, belirli hedefler, or belirli koşullar altında, all of which translate to phrases like a particular day, specific goals, or under certain conditions in English.

Etymology and related forms: Belirli derives from the root belir-, which carries the sense of determining, indicating, or marking. The suffix -li yields an adjective meaning “having the attribute of being determined,” thus giving the sense of something that is definite or defined. Related words include belirgin (evident, clear) and belirsiz (unclear or indefinite). The distinction between belirli and belirsiz is a common contrast in Turkish, with belirsiz used for things that are not definite or not specified.

Usage and nuance: Belirli is used to narrow scope or to refer to a known subset within a broader category. It often implies specification within a context, contrast with general statements, or the existence of known constraints. Examples include belirli bir süre (a definite period), belirli koşullar altında (under certain conditions), and belirli kişiler (certain individuals). While it is most common before a singular noun, it can also modify plural forms, as in belirli ülkeler.

See also: belirsiz, belirlilik, belirlermek.