Tunnust

Tunnust is a linguistic stem of the Estonian verb tunnustama, which means to acknowledge, admit, or recognize. It is not typically used as a standalone word; the form appears in conjugated verbs and in related nominal forms. For example, in the present tense the first-person singular form is tunnustan, the second-person singular is tunnustad, and the third-person singular is tunnustab. The infinite form (infinitive) is tunnustama.

The related noun form is tunnustus, meaning an acknowledgment, recognition, or credit. This noun is commonly used to refer to formal recognition or praise, such as awards or honors, rather than to the act of acknowledging in conversation. Another related form is tunnustamine, which refers to the act or process of acknowledging or admitting something.

Usage and nuance: tunnustama covers several nuances depending on context. It can mean to acknowledge facts or truth (to admit or concede), to confess a fault or wrongdoing, or to recognize merit or achievement. In legal or moral contexts, it may carry the sense of confessing guilt or taking responsibility. In social or institutional contexts, tunnustus typically denotes recognition or praise granted by an organization, such as a certificate, award, or official honor.

Translations: English equivalents vary by sense and include acknowledge, admit, confess, recognize, and in noun form acknowledgment, recognition, credit, or award. The exact translation depends on whether the emphasis is on admission of fact, admission of guilt, or formal recognition of achievement.