Sõeluma

Sõeluma is an Estonian verb that translates to "to sift," "to filter," or "to strain" in English. It describes the action of separating finer particles from coarser ones using a sieve or a similar implement. This process is commonly employed in various contexts, from culinary preparations to scientific endeavors.

In the kitchen, sõeluma is used to sift flour, sugar, or other dry ingredients. This helps to remove lumps, aerate the mixture, and ensure a smoother final product for baking or cooking. It can also refer to straining liquids, such as sauces or broths, to remove solid impurities and achieve a clear consistency.

Beyond the culinary realm, the verb can be used more metaphorically. For instance, one might "sõeluma" through a large amount of information to extract the most relevant details, or to "filter" potential candidates for a job. The core idea remains the separation of desired elements from undesired ones, or the refinement of a substance or concept. The object being sifted or filtered is typically referred to as the object of the verb, often in the partitive case. The tool used for sõeluma is usually a "sõel" (sieve).