Eelistatult

Eelistatult is an Estonian adverb meaning "preferably" or "as the preferred option." It is used to indicate that among several options, a particular one should be chosen or recommended. The word is common in formal, instructional, and evaluative texts, such as guidelines, reports, or decision documents. In everyday speech it is less common, and its meaning can be conveyed with synonyms like soovitatavalt.

Etymology and formation: Eelistatult is formed from the verb eelistama, meaning "to prefer," together with an adverbial formation that gives a sense of modality. The result is an adverb that modifies the action or statement to reflect recommendation or priority.

Usage notes: The adverb typically precedes the main clause or appears directly with the verb it modifies, expressing a recommended or prioritized approach. It is most common in formal or technical writing. In some contexts it can be replaced by synonyms such as soovitatavalt or eelistatavalt, depending on nuance, while peamiselt or ainult may not always carry the same sense of direct preference.

Examples:

- Eelistatult tuleks kasutada standardset lahendust. (Preferably, the standard solution should be used.)

- Eelistatult kaalutakse ainult asjakohaseid andmeid. (Preferably, only relevant data should be considered.)

See also: soovitatavalt, eelistatavalt, soovitus, eelistus.