mbajë

mbajë is a form of the Albanian verb mbaj and is most commonly encountered as the present subjunctive form of mbaj. The root mbaj carries a broad range of meanings centered on holding, keeping, or bearing. As a result, mbaj is a versatile transitive verb used in both concrete and abstract senses.

In its concrete sense, mbaj denotes holding or carrying objects. In figurative or idiomatic usage, it covers maintaining a state or condition, sustaining a position or argument, and bearing responsibilities. It can also express keeping or remembering information, or keeping promises and commitments. Common expressions include mbaj mend (to remember or keep in mind) and mbaj fjalën (to keep one’s word). Other frequent collocations express bearing responsibility, for example mbaj përgjegjësi (to bear responsibility).

Grammatically, mbajë is tied to the verb mbaj and appears in contexts that require the present subjunctive mood or similar subordinate constructions, such as after që in clauses expressing wishes or possibilities. The verb is productive in everyday Albanian and appears across dialects, in both spoken and written language.

Etymology and orthography: mbajë derives from the Albanian root mbaj- and reflects standard Albanian morphology, including the use of the letter ë in the present subjunctive form. The form is part of a broader family of verbs centered on carrying, maintaining, and supporting.

In summary, mbajë represents a key grammatical and semantic variant of mbaj, enabling expression of physical action, memory, obligation, and stance within both formal and informal Albanian.