Mõlemaid

Mõlemaid is the partitive plural form of the Estonian determiner mõlemad, meaning "both" or "the two of them." It is used when referring to two referents as a collective object or topic, especially in contexts where the action is directed at an indefinite quantity or in negation, and it often appears with verbs that govern the partitive case.

In Estonian grammar, mõlemaid functions as a pronoun-determiner in the partitive plural. It pairs with a following noun in the partitive case (for example, mõlemaid poisse – “both boys” in a partitive sense) or can stand on its own in clauses such as Ma ei näinud mõlemaid. The form contrasts with mõlemad, the nominative plural meaning "both," which is used in contexts where a definite, complete subject is in the nominative case.

Usage notes and examples help illustrate its role. For instance, Ma soovin mõlemaid varianti – I want both options. Ma ei näinud mõlemaid – I did not see either of them (two people or items implied). Mõlemaid näiteid arutati – Both examples were discussed. In negative clauses, the partitive form mõlemaid is common, reflecting the non-total or partial scope of the action.

Etymology traces mõlemaid back to mõlemad, with the partitive plural ending -id applied in line with Estonian grammar rules for partitive construction. While mõlemaid is primarily a grammatical form, it also appears in everyday speech when distinguishing or including two items or persons. See also: mõlemad, partitive case, Estonian grammar.