Näidissõna

Näidissõna is an Estonian term that translates to "example word" or "sample word." It is primarily used in linguistics and language teaching to illustrate a particular grammatical feature, phonetic characteristic, or lexical item. When learning a new language or analyzing its structure, instructors or linguists often provide näidissõnad to make abstract concepts more concrete and understandable. These words serve as concrete examples that learners can study, pronounce, and memorize.

For instance, when explaining the concept of vowel harmony in Estonian, a näidissõna might be a word that clearly demonstrates this rule. Similarly, when introducing a specific verb conjugation or noun declension, a näidissõna will be chosen to exemplify that particular grammatical pattern. The selection of a näidissõna is crucial; it should be a common, easily recognizable word that unambiguously showcases the intended linguistic feature without introducing unnecessary complexities or exceptions.

In dictionaries and grammar books, näidissõnad are frequently used to illustrate definitions, provide pronunciation guides, or demonstrate how words are used in context. They act as anchors for understanding, bridging the gap between theoretical explanations and practical application of language. The term emphasizes the illustrative purpose of the word, highlighting that it is presented not for its own sake, but to shed light on a broader linguistic phenomenon.