andke

Andke is an Estonian verb form that functions as the second-person plural imperative of the verb anda, meaning to give. It is used to issue a command or make a request to more than one person, or to a single person in a formal address. As part of Estonian mood and politeness systems, andke contrasts with the informal singular form anna (give).

Etymology and grammar notes: Andke is derived from the verb stem anda with the imperative suffix -ke. In standard Estonian, the imperative has distinct forms for singular informal, singular formal, and plural/formal address; andke represents the plural or formal imperative. The construction typically appears with a following object pronoun or noun, and may be preceded by politeness particles such as palun to soften the request.

Usage: Andke is common in official, administrative, and service contexts, as well as in formal speech and written notices. In everyday conversation, speakers often use the singular informal anna for a direct, casual command, or they employ polite phrases such as palun andke or palun andke mulle, meaning “please give me.” Andke may also appear in instructions or announcements where a plural or formal command is appropriate.

Examples: Andke mulle see raamat. (Please give me this book.) Andke teada, kui olete valmis. (Please let us know when you are ready.) Andke meile veidi aega. (Give us a little time.)

See also: Estonian verb anda, Estonian imperative mood, polite forms in Estonian.