Kasvades

Kasvades is an Estonian non-finite verb form derived from the verb kasvama, meaning to grow. It functions as an adverbial participle and expresses a second action occurring at the same time as the action of the main clause. In English, it is usually rendered as “while growing” or “as [someone/something] grows.” The form can refer to literal growth in plants or people, as well as to figurative growth such as development of skills, knowledge, or circumstances.

Grammatically, kasvades forms a non-finite clause that generally shares the subject with the main clause and is typically separated by a comma. If the subject of the non-finite clause differs from that of the main clause, Estonian typically uses a different construction, such as a full subordinate clause with a finite verb. Kasvades is most common in written and formal Estonian, where it adds a descriptive or narrative nuance; in everyday speech, speakers often prefer explicit subordinate clauses using conjunctions like kui ta kasvab or samal ajal kui ta kasvab.

The usage of kasvades covers both concrete and abstract contexts. It enables concise descriptions of concurrent development, such as a process that unfolds as something else changes, or a state that emerges while growth occurs. Because it is a non-finite form, it provides temporal nuance without introducing a new main clause, contributing to a smoother, more literary tempo in text. Overall, kasvades is a versatile tool for portraying simultaneous progression in Estonian.