Turvaliselt

Turvaliselt is an Estonian adverb meaning “in a safe manner” or “safely.” It is used to describe how an action is carried out, emphasizing safety or security in the process.

Etymology and form: Turvaliselt is formed from the adjective turvaline (safe) with the Estonian adverbial suffix -lt, a common pattern for creating adverbs that express manner. As an adverb, turvaliselt typically accompanies verbs.

Usage: The word appears frequently in safety-related language, such as manuals, guidelines, and workplace policies, as well as in everyday speech. Examples include statements like “Auto sõitis turvaliselt” (The car drove safely) and “Tööriista tuleb kasutada turvaliselt” (The tool must be used safely). In imperative form one can say “Käitu turvaliselt” (Act safely). It can also describe broader processes, e.g., “Töötamine turvaliselt” (working safely).

Nuances: Turvaliselt is distinct from turvaline, the adjective meaning “safe.” Turvaline describes a noun (e.g., turvaline töökoht, a safe workplace), while turvaliselt describes the manner of an action (e.g., töötama turvaliselt, to work safely).

See also: turvalisus (safety), turvaline (safe), Estonian adverbs.

Overall, turvaliselt provides a concise way to express that actions should or did occur with safety as a priority, and it is a common term in safety discourse in Estonian.