käsutada

Käsutada is an Estonian verb meaning to issue orders or commands, and to direct the actions of people, groups, or systems. The sense is directive and authoritative, typically referring to someone in a position of authority giving instructions or setting tasks for others.

Usage and context: The verb appears mainly in formal, administrative, military, or legal language. In everyday speech, speakers more commonly use käskima (to command) or anda korraldusi (to issue orders). Käsutada generally takes a direct object in the accusative when naming the subordinates or tasks commanded, for example: Ülem käsutas alluvaid. It can also be used with subordinate clauses that specify required actions.

Conjugation and forms: Käsutada is treated as a regular Estonian -uda verb. Present tense forms include ma käsutan, sa käsutad, ta käsutab, me käsutame, te käsutate, nad käsutavad. Past tense forms include ma käsutasin, sa käsutasid, ta käsutas, me käsutasime, te käsutasite, nad käsutasid. The participle is käsutanud, and compound perfect forms use olen käsutanud as appropriate.

Related terminology: Käskima specifically denotes “to command” and is more common in everyday or broad usage. Käsitada, while related in root, is typically used with meanings related to handling or managing objects or topics in non-directive senses.

Notes: As with many verbs in Estonian, exact nuance depends on context, formality of the register, and the relationship between speaker and audience.