demek
verb
Pronunciation: /deh-MEK/
English Meaning
to say, to mean
“demek” in Example Sentences
Bu kelime ne demek?
What does this word mean?
Annem 'Erken gel' dedi.
My mother said, 'Come early.'
Ne demek istiyorsun?
What do you mean?
Key Forms
| Turkish | English |
|---|---|
| diyorum | I am saying |
| dedim | I said |
Usage Note
'Demek' introduces direct speech, while 'söylemek' means 'to tell / say something'. 'Ne demek!' is also a polite reply to thanks: 'Not at all!'
Grammar & Usage
In the present continuous, 'demek' irregularly changes its root vowel: de-yor -> diyor.
Word Origin & Etymology
Old Turkic 'te-mek'.
Keep Learning
- Essential Verbs flashcardsPractise “demek” with the Core Actions (To...) words
- Reported SpeechGrammar lesson · Sentence Structure
- Present Continuous (-iyor)Grammar lesson · Verbs & Conjugation
- The 100 Most Common Turkish Verbs (With Examples)Guide · read more about this topic
- “demek” conjugationAll tenses with negative and question forms
- Turkish-English DictionaryBrowse all words A–Z
Related Words from Essential Verbs
Practice “demek” with Flashcards
Essential Verbs
Master this word along with others in the Core Actions (To...) category.