Nimisõnalises

Nimisõnalises is a term used in Estonian linguistics to describe a nominal structure within a sentence, i.e., a noun phrase built around a head noun with various modifiers. The word combines nimisõna (noun) with a suffix that yields an adjective meaning related to or characteristic of a noun. In grammar descriptions, nimisõnalises is used to indicate that the following material functions as part of a noun phrase rather than as a separate clause or predication.

A noun phrase in Estonian typically consists of a head noun and one or more modifiers. Modifiers can be adjectives, numerals, possessives, demonstratives, or other elements that specify or limit the head noun. Adjectives generally precede the noun, while numerals and possessive forms attach to the noun and influence its case and number. Because Estonian noun phrases are highly inflected, the form of the head noun and its modifiers changes according to case, number, and definiteness, all within the same nominal structure described as nimisõnalises.

In usage, nimisõnalises appears in descriptive grammars and language-education materials to distinguish nominal phrases from verbal clauses. It helps explain how meanings are packaged in a noun-centered unit, how modifiers accumulate around the head noun, and how case endings mark grammatical relations within the phrase.

Examples of noun phrases illustrating nimisõnalises include kollane maja (yellow house) and kolm suurt koera (three big dogs). These show how a head noun is combined with adjectives and numerals to form a complete nominal expression. See also noun phrase and Estonian grammar for further context.