Ümbersõnastatud

Ümbersõnastatud is Estonian an adjective used to describe a text that has been paraphrased or restated in different wording while preserving its original meaning. The term is formed from the prefix ümber- meaning “again” or “re-” and the verb sõnastama, “to phrase” or “to word.” The result, ümbersõnastatud, is typically used attributively, for example in phrases like ümbersõnastatud tekst or ümbersõnastatud versioon.

In practice, ümbersõnastatud texts are common in editorial and academic contexts when the goal is to convey the same information more clearly, for pedagogical purposes, or to avoid direct quotation. The concept is closely related to parafrasing; while parafraseeritud is widely used as a near-synonym in general language, ümbersõnastatud emphasizes the act of reformulating the original wording rather than merely restating ideas. The choice between terms can reflect stylistic preferences or disciplinary conventions.

Spelling variants and usage notes exist. Some writers hyphenate or separate the elements in line with stylistic guidelines (ümber-sõnastatud or ümber sõnastatud), but the unified form ümbersõnastatud is common in contemporary Estonian. The term is also relevant to ethical writing practices, as paraphrasing should change wording sufficiently and retain proper attribution to the source to avoid plagiarism.

See also: parafraseerimine, parafraseeritud tekst, sildistatud või originaaltekst.