jõusse

Jõusse is the illative case form of the Estonian noun jõud, meaning into power or into strength. It marks direction toward a state characterized by power, influence, or capacity. In usage, jõusse appears in phrases that describe entering or achieving power, particularly in political or formal contexts.

Etymology and grammar: The form is built on the stem jõu- (the genitive stem of jõud) with the illative suffix -sse. As an illative form it answers the question “into what state?” and is used with verbs that express coming into or gaining that state. Common collocations include jõusse pääseda and jõusse saama, which convey coming into power or gaining influence. Although primarily found in written or formal Estonian, it can also appear in journalistic or historical texts.

Usage and nuances: Jõusse is most often associated with political power, regimes, or offices. It can also be used metaphorically to describe gaining strength or capacity in non-political contexts, for example in discussions about organizations, movements, or plans that move into a position of greater influence. In everyday speech, speakers may opt for more general terms such as võim or mõju, depending on register and context.

Examples:

- Partei püüab jõusse pääseda. (The party seeks to come into power.)

- Ta on jõusse saanud. (He has come into power.)

These constructions illustrate the common pattern of combining jõusse with verbs that denote attainment or entry into a state.

Related terms: jõud (power, strength), jõuline (powerful, strong), and other grammatical forms of jõud.