nelerdir

Nelerdir is a Turkish interrogative construction formed from the pronoun ne (what) plus the plural suffix -ler/-lar and the copula dir. It literally means “What are they?” and is used to inquire about the identity or classification of a plural set of items, concepts, or events that are present or have been mentioned. The form often appears in formal or written Turkish, where the copula dir carries the sense of “is/are.”

Formation and syntax: The wordnelerdir combines ne + -ler (plural) + dir (copula). In sentences, nelerdir follows a subject noun phrase, typically after a demonstrative or a clear group reference. Common patterns include Bu aletler nelerdir? (What are these tools?), Bu eşyalar nelerdir? (What are these items?), or Bunlar nelerdir? (What are these?). The expected meaning is a request for identification or explanation of the items in question.

Usage and nuance: Nelerdir is used to ask for the nature, function, or category of several things and is more formal or literary than everyday speech. In casual conversation, speakers often substitute with nedir or more colloquial forms such as Bu neler? or Neler bunlar? while preserving the same underlying intent. The choice between nelerdir and simpler forms can convey tone, emphasis, or a desire for a precise classification.

Related forms: The singular counterpart is nedir, used for a single item or concept (Bu nedir? What is this?). Like nelerdir, nedir relies on the same copula system, but it targets singularity rather than plurality.