keelekoha

Keelekoha is an Estonian term that generally refers to a "language place" or a "place of language." It can encompass a variety of contexts, including geographical locations where a specific language is spoken, or more broadly, the environment and circumstances that foster language development and use.

In a literal sense, a keelekoha can be a region or community where Estonian, or any other language, is the primary mode of communication. This highlights the connection between a language and its speakers' homeland or community. It emphasizes the social and cultural aspect of language, recognizing that languages thrive within their spoken communities.

Beyond geography, keelekoha can also refer to the settings where language learning and practice occur. This might include schools, libraries, cultural centers, or even informal gatherings where people engage with and develop their linguistic skills. The concept acknowledges that the surrounding environment plays a crucial role in how language is acquired, maintained, and passed down through generations. It suggests that specific places can have a unique linguistic atmosphere.

The term can also be used metaphorically. It might describe a situation or a period in someone's life where language becomes particularly important or undergoes significant change. For example, a period of intensive language study abroad could be considered a keelekoha for an individual. The essence of keelekoha lies in the interplay between language and its physical or conceptual setting.