Täheldada

Täheldada is an Estonian verb meaning to notice, perceive, or detect something, and to become aware of a fact or detail through observation. It emphasizes the act of noticing, often regarding something subtle or not immediately obvious, rather than simply having knowledge.

In usage, täheldada tends to be slightly more formal or literary than more everyday verbs like märgata (to notice) or avastada (to discover). It is common in descriptive prose, scientific or investigative writing, and journalism, where careful observation and detection are described. In everyday speech, speakers may prefer märgata, while täheldada remains appropriate when the emphasis is on the moment of perception or a precise realization.

Conjugation and forms are typical of Estonian first-conjugation verbs. Infinitive: täheldama. Present tense: ma täheldan, sa täheldad, ta täheldab, me täheldame, te täheldate, nad täheldavad. Past tense: ma täheldasin, sa täheldasid, ta täheldas, me täheldasime, te täheldasite, nad täheldasid. Perfect participle: täheldanud; with olema to form perfect: olen täheldanud, oled täheldanud, on täheldanud, oleme täheldanud, olete täheldanud, on täheldanud.

Noun forms include täheldus, meaning observation or detection, and related nominalizations such as täheldamine in certain contexts. Related verbs include märgata and avastada, which are closer to general noticing or discovering in everyday language.

Examples: Ma täheldasin kummalise lõhna. (I noticed a strange smell.) Ta täheldab muutust olukorras. (She notices a change in the situation.)

Overall, täheldada conveys a careful act of noticing or perceiving, with a tone leaning toward formal or descriptive usage.