instrumentaalsingulaarne

Instrumentaalsingulaarne is a linguistic term describing the instrumental singular form or function within grammars that encode means or instruments of an action. It refers to the use of a noun phrase in the singular number that marks the instrument through a dedicated instrumental case or through a periphrastic construction using an adposition.

Function and meaning: The instrumental singular identifies the tool, implement, or means by which an action is performed, as in “to cut with a knife” or “write with a pencil.” In languages with an instrumental case, the noun takes a specific singular ending; in languages that use prepositions, the noun remains in its base form with an accompanying preposition.

Morphology and syntax: The form typically occurs on the noun in the singular. Some languages express it with suffixes attached to the noun stem; others rely on particles or postpositions to mark instrumentality. The construction generally occurs with verbs of action and can interact with word order or case harmony.

Cross-linguistic notes: Instrumental singular is common in several language families, including Slavic languages like Russian and Polish, as well as in some Finnic languages with parallel means-marking systems. Its exact realization—case ending, preposition, or else—varies by language. It contrasts with instrumental plural and with other means-marking strategies in languages that lack a dedicated instrumental case.

Examples: Estonian: Ma kirjutan pliiatsiga, meaning “I write with a pencil.” Russian: Ya pishu ruchkoy, meaning “I write with a pen.”