lausesidatselt

Lausesidatselt is a term used in Estonian linguistics to refer to the way clauses are connected within a sentence. It encompasses the relationships between main clauses and subordinate clauses as well as the connections between clauses of equal rank. The concept covers how these links are expressed through conjunctions, punctuation, and word order.

In practice, lausesidatselt describes two broad ways clauses can be linked. Koordineerimine (coordination) joins clauses of equal syntactic rank, typically with coordinating conjunctions such as ja (and), või (or), kuid (but), ning. Subordination (alamlause ühendamine) links a main clause to a subordinate clause, using subordinating conjunctions like et (that), kuna (because), kui (when), or sest (for/because). Punctuation also plays a role in signaling the connection between clauses.

Common markers and devices used in lausesidatselt include conjunctions, intonation, and, in some cases, clause-internal punctuation that clarifies the relationship between clauses. The choice of marker reflects the desired semantic relation (addition, contrast, reason, time, condition) and affects sentence rhythm and emphasis.

Related terms in Estonian grammar include pealause (main clause), alamlause (subordinate clause), and lauseside (clause linkage). Understanding lausesidatselt helps describe how meaning is organized across multiple clauses and explains how different clause types contribute to overall sentence structure.

See also: lause, pealause, alamlause, lauseside.