Sõnaliselt

Sõnalselt is an Estonian adverb that describes communication or expression carried out using spoken language rather than written form or other modalities. It is used to indicate that something is conveyed by words, often in a manner that can be heard or spoken aloud, rather than shown visually or encoded symbolically. In linguistic and academic discourse, sõnalselt is used to contrast spoken language with other means of representation, such as written text, sign languages, or images.

The term is derived from the noun sõna (word) and the adjective sõnaline (verbal, linguistic). The adverb is formed by the usual Estonian adverbial suffix, yielding a meaning akin to “in a verbal way” or “by words.” The primary nuance is a focus on expression through language as opposed to non-verbal communication.

Usage of sõnalselt appears in rhetoric, translation, education, and linguistics. It can refer to a statement delivered orally, to a spoken transcription, or to content presented without visual aids. It is often used in contrast with kirjalikult (in writing) or visuaalselt (visually).

Related terms include sõna, sõnaline, and sõnasõnaline.