Pöördumis

Pöördumis is an Estonian grammatical case used to address someone or something directly. It is similar to the vocative case in some other languages, though its usage and formation in Estonian have unique characteristics. The pöördumis case is primarily employed in informal and direct forms of address, such as when calling out to a friend, calling a pet, or when addressing a deity in prayer. In many instances, the noun used in the pöördumis case will take the same form as the nominative case. However, there are specific suffixes that can be added in certain contexts to further emphasize the direct address, particularly with masculine nouns ending in -s.

For example, a common form of address like "Jaan!" uses the pöördumis case. While it looks identical to the nominative form, the function is distinct. The pöördumis case signals that the noun is not the subject of a sentence but is being spoken to. It is an essential element for conveying direct communication and personal address within the Estonian language, adding a layer of expressiveness and intimacy to speech.