Määrab

Määrab is a form of the Estonian verb määrama, meaning to determine, decide, appoint, or fix. In ordinary and formal language, it is used to describe someone or something that sets a rule, determines a date or parameter, or designates a position or outcome. For example, a law or regulation can determine limits, procedures can determine timelines, and a state body can appoint a official.

Etymology and related forms: Määrab derives from the Estonian noun määr, meaning limit, boundary, or designation, with the verb-forming suffix -ama. It is cognate with the Finnish verb määrätä, and both come from the same Proto-Finnic roots. The key semantic core across languages is to set or fix something in place.

Grammatical note: Määrab is the third-person singular present indicative form of määrama. The infinitive is määrama. In standard Estonian, the verb conjugates regularly, with 1st person singular present as määran, 2nd person singular as määrad, and 1st–3rd person plural as määrame, määrate, määravad. The past tense forms use standard Estonian endings, for example määrasin (I determined), määrasid (you determined), määras (he/she/it determined).

Usage: The verb is common in legal, administrative, and bureaucratic contexts, where authorities set rules, dates, or qualifications. It often implies an authoritative or prescriptive action, such as a government determining a deadline, a law determining permissible conduct, or an authority appointing someone to a post. It contrasts with otsustada (to decide) in that määrama emphasizes setting or fixing parameters, rather than simply reaching a decision.

See also: määrama, määrus, määrata, Estonian grammar.