Ettevaatlikult

Ettevaatlikult is an Estonian adverb meaning “in a cautious, careful manner” or “cautiously.” It is used to describe how an action is performed, emphasizing care to avoid risk or harm. The word modifies verbs and is common in safety-related contexts, as well as in everyday speech where measured, careful behavior is described.

Etymology and form: ettevaatlikult is derived from the adjective ettevaatlik, meaning careful or watchful. The adjective itself blends the prefix ette- (before, in advance) with vaatlik (watchful). The adverb form is created by adding the suffix -ult, yielding ettevaatlikult, which is the standard spelling in contemporary Estonian. The article title Ettevaatlikult reflects capitalization typical of encyclopedia entries.

Usage notes: Ettevaatlikult is used in both procedural and descriptive sentences to convey prudence or forethought. It can appear in safety instructions, journalism, education, and colloquial speech when describing how someone performs an action with care.

Examples:

- Autojuhid peaksid liikluses ettevaatlikult sõitma. (Drivers should drive cautiously in traffic.)

- Tootmisjuhendid nõuavad, et operatsioonid teostatakse ettevaatlikult. (The manufacturing instructions require operations to be performed carefully.)

- Ta astus uksest välja ettevaatlikult. (He stepped out of the door cautiously.)

See also: ohutus, ettevaatus.