Suhtlus

Suhtlus is an Estonian noun that denotes the process of communicating or interacting, including the exchange of information, ideas, feelings, and intentions between people or groups. It encompasses verbal and nonverbal channels—speech, facial expression, body language, and written forms—and can occur in person or through technology. In everyday language, suhtlus refers to interpersonal communication as well as social interactions within organizations or communities.

Etymology and related terms: The word stems from the verb suhtlema, meaning to interact or communicate. Related forms include suhtlemine (the act or practice of communication) and phrases describing modes or contexts of communication. In contrast, kommunikatsioon is a broader, often technical term adopted from other languages and used in academic or professional contexts to describe the transmission of information.

Contexts and usage: In education and psychology, suhtlus is studied as interpersonal communication skills, including listening, empathy, and feedback. In business, it relates to internal communication, leadership communication, and stakeholder engagement. In media and digital culture, digitaalne suhtlus refers to online messaging, social media interaction, and other electronic forms of communication.

Notes on nuance: The distinction between suhtlus and suhtlemine is subtle and context-dependent. Some speakers treat them as interchangeable; others reserve suhtlus for the interaction itself and suhtlemine for the practice or habit of communicating.

See also: kommunikatsioon, suhtlusvõrgustik, sotsiaalne suhtlus.