Hulgas

Hulgas is an Estonian word that functions as an inclusory marker meaning “including.” It is used in lists or statements to indicate that the items named are part of a larger group, and that additional items belong to that group even if they are not listed.

Etymology and form: The word derives from the noun hulk, meaning “mass” or “crowd,” combined with a derivational suffix that yields a particle used to signal inclusion. Hulgas is invariable and is typically inserted into a sentence with a comma, functioning as a parenthetical or transitional element in enumerations.

Usage: Hulgas appears mainly in formal or semi-formal writing and in spoken Estonian when the speaker wants to emphasize that the set is not limited to the items explicitly named. It is often placed after the broader noun phrase and before the example items, with the rest of the list sometimes following. In translation, hulgas is rendered as “including” or “among others.”

Examples:

- Riikide nimekiri sisaldab mitmeid Euroopa riike, hulgas Eesti, Soome ja Rootsi.

- Koolitusprogrammis osalesid mitmed töötajad, hulgas juhid ja osakonnajuhatajad.

- Pakett sisaldab peamist teenust, hulgas tehnilist tuge ja tõlkeabi.

See also: In Estonian grammar, hulgas is part of enumerative constructions and is commonly contrasted with a more restrictive phrasing that omits inclusivity. The term is widely understood by native speakers and is a standard device for clarifying that a list is not exhaustive.