Rõhuna

Rõhuna is a term used in Estonian linguistics to denote the primary stress or emphasis in a word. Estonian word stress is generally fixed and falls on the first syllable of a word. This is a significant characteristic of the language, distinguishing it from many other European languages where stress can be variable. While the first syllable is the default, there are some exceptions and nuances to consider. For instance, in compound words, the primary stress typically falls on the first syllable of the first component. However, in certain grammatical constructions or when a specific part of a word needs to be emphasized for semantic reasons, secondary stress might occur on other syllables, though it remains weaker than the primary stress. The consistent placement of stress on the initial syllable contributes to the rhythmic quality of spoken Estonian. Understanding rõhuna is crucial for correct pronunciation and comprehension of the Estonian language. It influences the auditory perception of words and can affect how meaning is conveyed, particularly in distinguishing between homographs or clarifying intended emphasis in a sentence.