Alamlauset

Alamlauset is a term in Estonian grammar referring to a clause that cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. It depends on a main clause to convey a full meaning and is used to add content, description, or context. Alamlauset can function as a noun clause, a relative clause, or an adverbial clause. It is typically introduced by subordinating conjunctions or relative pronouns, such as et, kui, kuna, kes, or mis. In standard Estonian punctuation, an alamlauset is usually separated from the main clause by a comma.

Noun clauses (nimelause) act as a noun within the main clause. For example: Ma mõtlen, et ta tuleb. Here the whole subordinate clause et ta tuleb serves as the object of mõtlen, expressing the content of the thought.

Relative clauses (relatiivlauset) modify a noun. For example: See on inimene, kes tuli. The clause kes tuli provides information about the noun inimene and is integrated into the noun phrase.

Adverbial clauses (adverbiaalne alamlauset) express time, reason, condition, consequence, or concession. For example: Kui vihma sajab, jäävad inimesed kodus. This clause sets the conditions for the main clause and often indicates time or cause; the finite verb in an alamlauset typically appears at the end of the clause.

In grammar descriptions, alamlauset is distinguished from the main clause by its dependence and its function within the complex sentence. While the main clause can usually stand alone, an alamlauset cannot, and its meaning is tethered to the information provided by the main clause.