alusõnast

Alusõnast is an Estonian linguistic term referring to a base word or root word. It represents the fundamental form of a word from which other words can be derived through inflection or derivation. For example, in the word "maja" (house), "maja" itself is the alusõnast. From this base word, one can form "majad" (houses) through pluralization or "majakesed" (little houses) through diminutives.

Understanding the alusõnast is crucial in Estonian grammar for comprehending word formation and meaning. It is the core semantic unit that carries the primary meaning of a word. When analyzing Estonian vocabulary, identifying the alusõnast helps learners grasp the relationships between different word forms and expand their understanding of the language's structure.

The concept of alusõnast is similar to the idea of a root word or lemma in other languages. It serves as the starting point for grammatical changes, such as adding suffixes or prefixes, to create new words with altered meanings or grammatical functions. This foundational element is essential for both native speakers and language learners to effectively use and interpret the Estonian language.