kõnetama

Kõnetama is an Estonian verb meaning to address someone verbally or to speak to someone, and, in a broader sense, to move or affect someone emotionally. The core sense is directing speech at a person or audience, whether in direct address or rhetorical context. The word is derived from the noun kõne (speech) with the infinitive suffix -tama.

In usage, kõnetama is transitive and typically takes a person or group as its object, for example with kedagi (someone) or publikut (the audience). It can be used both literally, as in addressing someone, and metaphorically, as in a message that resonates or moves an audience. Common phrases include kõnetama publikut or see teema kõnetab paljusid inimesi.

Conjugation follows the regular pattern of -ma verbs. Present tense forms include ma kõnetan, sa kõnetad, ta kõnetab, me kõnetame, te kõnetate, nad kõnetavad. Past tense forms include ma kõnetasin, sa kõnetasid, ta kõnetas, me kõnetasime, te kõnetasite, nad kõnetasid. The participle kõnetanud means having addressed.

Kõnetamist use on widespread in political rhetoric, public speaking, journalism, and literary criticism, wherever a message is aimed at an audience or intended to strike a chord. Related terms include kõne (speech), kõnelema (to speak), and kõnetus (the act of addressing). The register is neutral and standard Estonian; nuances arise from context, formality, and the strength of the appeal or personal connection being conveyed.