ebaõigest

ebaõigest is a term used in discourse analysis and Estonian linguistics to denote a quality or state characterized by impropriety within a given normative framework. It is formed from the prefix eba- meaning not, the root õigest derived from õige meaning right or proper, and the suffix -st marking a nominal abstract state. The term is largely theoretical and not widely attested in standard dictionaries, but has appeared in analytical discussions as a label for statements, proposals, or actions that fail to align with a context’s normative expectations rather than merely being factually false.

In use, ebaõigest is intended to help distinguish normative impropriety from factual error in evaluating discourse. For example, a policy argument might be described as ebaõigest if its framing or recommended course of action violates accepted normative standards, even when its factual premises are correct. The concept thereby complements categories such as ebaõige (incorrect) and ethically problematic discourse.

Limitations: The term remains debated and its scope can vary by field. Some scholars caution that blending normative judgments with factual assessment can be contentious, and the precise boundaries of ebaõigest are not uniformly agreed upon.

See also: Estonian linguistics; discourse analysis; negation; normative ethics; rhetorical analysis.