Lähisteks

Lähisteks is an Estonian grammatical form that functions as the translative plural of the noun lähis, which means a relative. The base noun lähis refers to a close family member, i.e., a relative, and lähised are relatives in the plural. The translative form lähisteks is used to express a change of state or role, specifically the act of becoming or being regarded as relatives in a given context.

In Estonian grammar, the translative case (ending in -ks) marks a change of state, transition, or role. Lähisteks, as the translative plural, is therefore employed in sentences that describe people or groups taking on the status of relatives. This form contrasts with other cases of the same noun: the nominative plural lähised for “relatives,” and the singular translative lähiseks for “to become a relative.” The exact construction can vary with the verb and broader sentence structure, but the core meaning centers on a shift toward being treated or recognized as relatives.

Common contexts for lähisteks include family or kinship discussions, genealogical narratives, and legal or formal discourse where relations and kin ties are described or defined. It is most likely to appear in clauses using verbs of becoming or designation, such as expressions signaling a change in status or role within a family or social group. As with other translative forms, the usage is generally more frequent in written Estonian and in formal registers, though it also occurs in everyday speech when a shift in relational status is being described.