Rõhutama

Rõhutama is an Estonian verb meaning to emphasise, to stress, or to insist on a point. It conveys the act of drawing special attention to something and often implies that a point deserves particular consideration, importance, or urgency. In English translations it is most commonly rendered as “to emphasise” or “to stress.” The verb is widely used in formal writing, journalism, and public discourse, but also appears in everyday speech when the speaker wants to underline a claim or instruction.

Etymology: The verb is linked to the notion of applying emphasis or pressure. Its sense has broadened to cover both highlighting a fact and stressing its importance. It belongs to the productive Estonian -ma infinitive class and is conjugated like other verbs in the language. Phrases typically used with it include 'rõhutan' (I emphasise) and 'rõhutada' with an object or a clause introduced by 'et' (that).

Usage: Rõhutama is used when the speaker wants to convey stronger emphasis than a casual statement. It often introduces a claim, recommendation, or requirement. Examples include: 'Ta rõhutas vajadust investeeringute järele' (He emphasised the need for investments) and 'Rõutan, et kõik osapooled peavad osalema' (I emphasise that all stakeholders must participate). The construction may take a direct object or a subordinate clause.

See also: Rõhutamine (the act of emphasising), esile tõstmine (highlighting), esile tõstma (to bring to the fore).