Arutlevad

Arutlevad is an Estonian verb form that expresses that a group of people is currently engaging in deliberate discussion or reasoned debate. It translates roughly as “they deliberate” or “they discuss in a considered way.” The word is the third-person plural present tense of the verb arutlema, whose infinitive is arutlema, meaning to deliberate or discuss thoroughly. Related noun forms include arutelu, meaning deliberation or discussion, and arutlemine, referring to the act or process of deliberation.

In usage, arutlevad is used to describe collective consideration of an issue, often in formal or public contexts such as politics, academia, journalism, or institutional decision-making. It frames discourse as a process of weighing arguments and examining evidence rather than as a quarrel or a casual chat. For example, Nõukogu liikmed arutlevad tuleva aasta eelarve üle (The council members are deliberating over next year’s budget). Teadlased arutlevad erinevate meetodite sobivuse kohta (Researchers are deliberating on the suitability of different methods).

The term carries a neutral connotation, emphasizing reasoned analysis and collaborative problem-solving. It contrasts with more combative or confrontational language and is commonly used in formal reporting, minutes, and discussions of policy or research. See also arutelu (deliberation, discussion) and arutlemine (deliberation as a process). While arutlevad denotes the ongoing action, its related forms help express related stages of reasoning and discourse in Estonian.