mNgon brJod (Lesson 4–5) MCQs Quiz | Class 10

This quiz focuses on ‘mNgon brJod’ from Class X Tibetan (017) Grammar, covering basic usage and meaning as per the textbook, identifying correct forms, filling blanks, matching terms to meaning, application in simple sentences, objective drills, and error spotting. Attempt all 10 questions and submit to see your results. You can then download a detailed PDF answer sheet.

Understanding mNgon brJod: Expressive Language in Tibetan Grammar

Overview:

In Tibetan grammar and literature, ‘mNgon brJod’ (མངོན་བརྗོད་) refers to expressive words, epithets, or rhetorical devices that are used to enhance the meaning, beauty, and impact of language. Unlike ordinary descriptive words, mNgon brJod often involves poetic or metaphorical expressions, synonyms, or terms that evoke a deeper sense or specific quality of the subject. It’s a crucial aspect of classical Tibetan writing, adding layers of nuance and sophistication.

Key Points:

  • Purpose: To describe something vividly, poetically, or with a specific emphasis that goes beyond simple denotation.
  • Forms: Can include epithets (e.g., calling the sun “great eagle”), synonyms used for emphasis, metaphorical expressions, or words that convey a particular quality (e.g., ‘dbang phyug’ for a king’s power).
  • Importance: Enriches the text, makes it more engaging, and demonstrates linguistic mastery. It’s common in poetry, religious texts, and formal prose.
  • Origin: Often rooted in traditional knowledge, mythology, or specific cultural associations.

Covering Topics in Detail:

1. Basic usage and meaning:

mNgon brJod are words or phrases chosen for their evocative power, adding ‘flavor’ to the description. For instance, instead of just “fire” (me), one might use “srog ‘dzin” (life-holder, referring to fire’s role in sustaining life/heat).

2. Identify correct form/word:

This involves discerning which mNgon brJod is appropriate for a given context or subject. For example, specific epithets are used for deities, royalty, or natural phenomena. Incorrect usage can lead to awkward or nonsensical phrases.

3. Fill blanks:

Applying mNgon brJod to complete sentences requires understanding the intended meaning and selecting an expressive word that fits both grammatically and poetically.

4. Match term-to-meaning:

Many mNgon brJod terms have specific, often metaphorical, meanings. Matching them correctly is key to comprehension. For example, “mkha’ lding” (sky-goer) can be an mNgon brJod for a bird, or even the sun.

5. Apply in simple sentences:

Constructing sentences using mNgon brJod to convey a richer meaning.

  • Example: Instead of “Nyi ma shar song” (The sun rose), one might say “Khyung chen shar song” (The great eagle/sun rose), adding a poetic flourish.

6. Objective MCQ drills:

Practicing identification, selection, and understanding of mNgon brJod through multiple-choice questions helps reinforce learning.

7. Error spotting:

Identifying sentences where mNgon brJod has been used inappropriately or incorrectly, which is crucial for developing a refined understanding.

Quick Revision List:

  • mNgon brJod = expressive words/epithets.
  • Enhances meaning and beauty.
  • Look for metaphorical or culturally significant terms.
  • Context is key to correct usage.
  • Practise distinguishing from plain descriptive words.

Table: Common mNgon brJod Examples (English description):

Common Term (English concept) Traditional Tibetan Term (Transliterated) mNgon brJod Example (Transliterated) Meaning of mNgon brJod
Sun Nyi ma Khyung chen Great Eagle (symbolizing grandeur)
Moon Zla ba mTshan mo’i mchod sdong Night’s Lamp-post (illuminating night)
Water Chu Chab kyi rgyal po King of Waters (for large bodies)
Fire Me Srog ‘dzin Life-holder (source of warmth/life)
King Rgyal po dBang phyug Sovereign Lord (expressing majesty)

5 Extra Practice Questions:

  1. Which of these is an ‘mNgon brJod’ for “lotus”?

    • a) Chu skyes (water-born)
    • b) Shing (tree)
    • c) Rdo (stone)
    • d) Sa (earth)

    Answer: a) Chu skyes (water-born)

  2. Identify the ‘mNgon brJod’ that typically refers to a scholar or wise person.

    • a) Mi mang (many people)
    • b) Shes rab kyi sgron me (lamp of wisdom)
    • c) Blo chung (small mind)
    • d) Gzi brjid (splendor)

    Answer: b) Shes rab kyi sgron me (lamp of wisdom)

  3. Complete the sentence with an appropriate ‘mNgon brJod’: “The wise guru was a ____ for his disciples.”

    • a) Dgra bo (enemy)
    • b) Blo sbyong (mind training)
    • c) Lam ston (path shower – a guide, can be an mNgon brJod)
    • d) Gnyid skye (sleep-inducing)

    Answer: c) Lam ston (path shower – a guide)

  4. Which ‘mNgon brJod’ could describe a beautiful woman?

    • a) Pho nya (messenger)
    • b) Pad ma’i ‘dzum (lotus smile – an epithet for beauty)
    • c) Sa gnas (place)
    • d) Rtswa (grass)

    Answer: b) Pad ma’i ‘dzum (lotus smile)

  5. What is the primary characteristic that distinguishes ‘mNgon brJod’ from a simple noun?

    • a) It always refers to an action.
    • b) It carries an added layer of poetic, metaphorical, or emphatic meaning.
    • c) It must be a compound word.
    • d) It is only used in negative sentences.

    Answer: b) It carries an added layer of poetic, metaphorical, or emphatic meaning.