Selgitav

Selgitav is an Estonian adjective meaning "explanatory" or "providing an explanation." It is formed from the verb selgitama, "to explain," with the common adjectival suffix -av. In usage, selgitav describes elements that clarify or elucidate content for the reader.

In publishing and academic writing, selgitav is frequently found in phrases such as selgitav märkus (explanatory note), selgitav joonis (explanatory figure), and selgitav tekst (explanatory text). These labels indicate material that accompanies the main text to offer clarification, definitions, or methodological details. The term is also used more broadly to describe sections or captions that help the reader understand figures, tables, or arguments.

Relation to other terms: selgitav is an adjective, whereas selgitus is the noun form meaning "explanation," and selgitama is the verb "to explain." As a word class, selgitav behaves like other Estonian adjectives and inflects according to number and case in accordance with the noun it accompanies.

Summary: Selgitav denotes explanatory content within a text, diagram, or document. It helps readers grasp concepts, procedures, or data more clearly by providing additional clarification and context. It is a common descriptor in Estonian-language academic, reference, and instructional materials.