Selgitamiseks

Selgitamiseks is an Estonian non-finite form derived from the verb selgitama (to explain). It functions as a purpose infinitive, roughly translating to “for the purpose of explaining” or “to explain.” The form is common in formal or instructional writing, where it introduces the purpose of an action or object.

Formation and grammatical role: Selgitamiseks is created from the verb stem selgit- and the infinitive suffix -ama to form selgitama, with the purpose suffix -miseks added to yield selgitamiseks. This construction parallels other purpose infinitives in Estonian, such as kasutamiseks (for use) or lugemiseks (for reading). It is not a finite verb and does not express tense or subject by itself; instead, it specifies why something is done.

Usage: The form typically appears after a noun or noun phrase to indicate purpose. Examples include teabe selgitamiseks (for the purpose of explaining information) and ülesande selgitamiseks (for explaining the task). It is frequently found in manuals, instructions, educational texts, and formal explanations where the aim is to clarify or justify actions.

Related terms and notes: The related noun selgitus means “an explanation,” while selgitamiseks marks the purpose of an action rather than the content of the explanation itself. Other examples of same pattern include soovi korral selgitamiseks, mis follows the same purpose-building rule. As a stylistic device, selgitamiseks helps to link intentions directly to actions in a concise, formal register.