Relatiivpronoom

Relatiivpronoom, known in English as relative pronoun, are words that introduce a relative clause. They connect a dependent clause to a main clause, providing additional information about a noun or pronoun in the main clause. In Estonian, common relative pronouns include "kes," "mis," "keda," "mida," "kelle," "mille," "kellele," "millele," "kellelt," "millelt," "kelleks," and "milleks." The choice of relative pronoun depends on the grammatical function and case of the noun or pronoun it refers to.

"Kes" is used for people and takes the nominative case. For example, "See on mees, kes jookseb." (This is the man who is running.) "Mis" is used for things and also takes the nominative case. For instance, "Raamat, mis on laual, on minu." (The book that is on the table is mine.) Other forms of these pronouns, such as "keda" (whom, accusative), "mida" (which, accusative), "kelle" (whose, genitive), and so on, are used to match the case required by the structure of the relative clause.

Relative pronouns function similarly to conjunctions by linking clauses, but they also act as pronouns within the relative clause, taking the place of the antecedent. Understanding the correct usage of Estonian relative pronouns is crucial for constructing grammatically sound and clear sentences that effectively convey meaning and relationships between different parts of the sentence. They add descriptive detail and specificity, making complex ideas more manageable.