ettevaatlikuma

Ettevaatlikuma is the comparative degree of the Estonian adjective ettevaatlik, meaning more cautious or more careful. It is used when comparing the level of caution between two or more subjects, such as people, actions, or plans.

In Estonian, adjectives form comparisons so that ettevaatlikum is the base comparative form, while ettevaatlikuma appears in inflected positions required by the sentence. The form ettevaatlikuma is most commonly seen in genitive singular constructions, for example in phrases like ettevaatlikuma valiku or ettevaatlikuma otsuse, where it functions as an attribute describing a noun.

Etymology and related forms: ettevaatlik stems from the root ettevaatlik, which conveys prudent, wary, or careful behavior. Related words include ettevaatlikkus (caution, prudence) and adverbial forms such as ettevaatlikult, which describe actions done with caution. The comparative ettevaatlikum is used in the standard attributive position, while ettevaatlikuma appears when the form is required by grammar (case, number, or gender) in a sentence.

Usage: ettevaatlikuma is appropriate in formal or semi-formal Estonian when a higher degree of caution is being described, especially in explanations, analyses, or recommendations. It contrasts with ettevaatlik, the base adjective, and with ettevaatlikum, the more general comparative form used in straightforward comparisons.

See also: ettevaatlikkus, ettevaatlikult, cautiousness, risk assessment, decision making.