Eriliselt

Eriliselt is an Estonian adverb meaning extremely or exceptionally. It functions as a degree modifier, intensifying adjectives and other adverbs. It is commonly used in formal, literary, or journalistic contexts and is stronger than the more everyday intensifier väga. It can convey a high level of emphasis without altering the core meaning of the modified word.

Etymology and form: Eriliselt is formed from the adjective eriline, meaning special or extraordinary, plus the adverbial suffix -lt. This builds a word that denotes degree rather than a basic property, allowing speakers to express a pronounced characteristic rather than a simple attribute.

Usage and nuance: Eriliselt is suited to careful, precise emphasis. In everyday speech, speakers may opt for väga or veel—eriliselt tends to feel more elevated and formal. It commonly precedes adjectives or other adverbs, for example: See raamat on eriliselt huvitav (“This book is extremely interesting”). It can also appear with phrases to stress evaluation in writing or speaking.

Translations and equivalents: In English, eriliselt translates as extremely or exceptionally. Similar intensifiers in other languages carry comparable force, though direct equivalents depend on context and register. Eriliselt is one of several tools Estonian speakers use to calibrate emphasis in description.