kavatsema

Kavatsema is an Estonian verb meaning to intend or to plan to do something. It expresses a person’s intention regarding a future action and is typically used with another verb in the infinitive, forming phrases such as “ma kavatsen minna” (I intend to go).

In the present tense, kavatsema inflects like other Estonian -sema verbs. The common forms include ma kavatsen (I intend) and ta kavatseb (he/she intends). The verb can be negated with ei, as in “ma ei kavatse minna” (I do not intend to go). It is used with the infinitive of the main action, for example “kavatsema teha” or “kavatsema minna.”

Usage and nuances: kavatsema conveys a definite intention or resolve to perform a future action. It often implies that the plan is contemplated and there is some expectation of carrying it out. It can be somewhat more formal or definite than synonyms like planima (to plan) or mõtlema (to think about doing), though the exact tone depends on context and choice of words.

Related terms: planima (to plan), mõtlema (to think about doing), and tegema (to do) are commonly used with kavatsema to describe future actions. Like many Estonian verbs, kavatsema participates in typical tense and mood formations, including negation with ei and, in subordinate clauses, with appropriate infinitive constructions.