elatiivikõnega

Elatiivikõnega, often translated as "elative speech" or "elative discourse," refers to a specific stylistic or rhetorical device used in language, particularly in Estonian grammar. It is characterized by the use of the elative case, which typically indicates separation or origin, to convey a sense of emphasis, intensity, or a strong emotional state. This is not a literal grammatical case marking but rather a figurative application of its semantic function.

The elative case in Estonian (marked by the ending -st) normally expresses "from" or "out of." For instance, "ma tulen majast" means "I come from the house." However, in elatiivikõnega, this case is employed in contexts where it's not grammatically required to express a literal movement from a place. Instead, it amplifies the meaning of the word it modifies, suggesting a profound or overwhelming experience.

This rhetorical device can manifest in various ways. It might be used to describe a strong feeling, such as immense happiness or deep sorrow, as if the emotion is bursting forth from within. For example, a speaker might say "Ma olen õnnest hullumas" (I am going crazy from happiness), where "õnnest" (from happiness) uses the elative to intensify the feeling of being overwhelmed by joy. It can also express a sense of being completely immersed in something or being utterly lost in a particular state. While not a formal grammatical rule, elatiivikõnega is recognized as a creative and expressive linguistic tool that adds nuance and emotional depth to communication.