Proovida

Proovida is an Estonian verb meaning to try, to attempt, to test, or to sample. It is used across a broad range of contexts, from practical experiments and testing products to trying new experiences or ideas. The noun proov means a test or trial, and proovida derives from it to express performing a trial or making an attempt. In everyday language the verb can describe both literal experimentation and figurative attempts.

Usage: Proovida typically governs a direct object or noun phrase indicating what is being tried, for example proovida uut meetodit (to try a new method) or proovida toitu (to sample food). It can also appear with adjectives and in constructions that indicate plans to attempt something, such as questions about what one intends to try or whether something can be tried. The verb is versatile enough to cover testing equipment, methods, or experiences, and it can express success or failure of the attempt depending on context.

Grammar: Proovida is a regular Estonian verb and follows standard conjugation patterns. The imperative forms are proovi (singular) and proovige (plural or polite). The perfect aspect is formed with the auxiliary olema plus a participle, for example olen proovinud (I have tried). The present and past tenses align with common Estonian verb morphology.

See also: Proov (test), Estonian verbs, language learning resources.