Ettevaade

Ettevaade is a term used in Estonian publishing and media to refer to a short preview or teaser of a work released before the main release. It is meant to give readers or viewers a glimpse of what is to come and to generate interest, without delivering the full content. The form can vary from a short paragraph in a magazine to a dedicated promotional page online, or a brief synopsis attached to an upcoming release.

Etymology and distinction: the word combines ette- “before” and vaade “view” or “glance.” Ettevaade is distinct from items that are part of the work itself, such as eessõna (foreword) or sissejuhatus (introduction). Instead, ettevaade is external and promotional, positioned to prepare an audience for the forthcoming full work.

Forms and usage: in practice, ettevaade may appear as a blurb, a short excerpt, or a concise summary highlighting themes, key ideas, or sample passages. It is commonly used for books, magazines, websites, exhibitions, and film or media projects. Content usually aims to attract interest while avoiding spoilery details of the main work. Publication often occurs in advance of a release date, in newsletters, catalogues, or media previews.

Relation to other terms: while eessõna provides context from the author or editor within the work, and sissejuhatus introduces the material, ettevaade operates as a pre-release promotional tool. It complements marketing materials and can help readers decide whether to engage with the full work.

See also: eessõna, sissejuhatus, promotional blurb, teaser.