demokraatlikul

Demokraatlikul is an Estonian inflected form of the adjective demokraatlik, which means democratic or relating to democracy. In this specific form, demokraatlikul, the word functions as the adessive singular form and is used to modify a noun in a sense of location, condition, or manner, often translating to “in a democratic [way/state/etc.]” in English. It commonly appears in formal or academic language when describing processes, systems, or contexts that are characterized by democratic principles.

Etymology and development: The base adjective demokraatlik is derived from demokraatia (democracy) plus the adjectival suffix -lik, forming a word meaning related to democracy. The ending -ul marks the adessive singular, a grammatical case used in Estonian to indicate location or manner, as in “demokraatlikul moel” (in a democratic manner) or “demokraatlikul riigil” (in a democratic state).

Usage and examples: Demokraatlikul appears in writing that discusses governance, institutions, or political culture from a democratic perspective. It is often part of longer phrases that specify the context or mode, such as “demokraatlikul viisil” (in a democratic way) or “demokraatlikul riigil” (in a democratic state). The form underscores the manner or condition rather than describing an object directly.

Relation to other forms: As a declined form of the same adjective, demokraatlikul contrasts with other case forms like demokraatliku (genitive), demokraatlikku (partitive), or nominative demokraatlik. Estonian adjectives decline to agree with the noun they modify in case and number.

See also: Democracy, Estonian language, Estonian grammar.