käsule

Käsule is the allative form of the Estonian noun käsk, meaning an order or command. In Estonian grammar, the allative case marked by the suffix -le can express direction toward the source or holder of an instruction, but in phrases with käsk it most often conveys that an action is performed under someone’s orders or by instruction. The form is primarily found in formal, legal, administrative, or historical writing and is uncommon in everyday speech.

Usage and meaning

Käsule denotes a relationship of authority between the issuer of an instruction and the person or body carrying it out. It signals that the directive originates from a higher authority and that the recipient is acting in accordance with that directive. In modern Estonian, writers may prefer alternative constructions such as käsu alusel (on the basis of an order) or reference to the act as done under instruction rather than relying on käsule in everyday prose. The term, however, remains part of the grammatical toolkit for describing hierarchical relationships in official discourse or archival texts.

Etymology and form

The word is derived from käsk (order) with the allative suffix -le, forming käsule. This formation illustrates how Estonian uses case endings to express nuance around direction and authority in phrases relating to orders or commands.

See also

Käsk, Allativ (allative case), Käsku täitma (to carry out an order).