Kõnekäänd

Kõnekäänd is an Estonian term that refers to an idiom or a common saying. These are phrases or expressions whose meaning cannot be deduced from the literal meanings of the words themselves. Kõnekäänds are a rich part of Estonian language and culture, often conveying wisdom, humor, or observations about life.

The usage of kõnekäänds is widespread in everyday Estonian conversation, literature, and proverbs. They often have a metaphorical or figurative meaning that is understood by native speakers. For example, "ära aja pada keema" literally means "don't boil the pot," but it is used idiomatically to mean "don't stir up trouble" or "don't get angry." Another common kõnekäänd is "hundi hunti silmast" which translates to "the wolf from the wolf's eye," meaning to recognize someone by their own actions or character.

These expressions are passed down through generations and contribute to the colorfulness and expressiveness of the Estonian language. Learning and using kõnekäänds can significantly improve one's understanding and fluency in Estonian, as they are integral to natural communication. They often encapsulate cultural values and historical experiences.