leidlik

Leidlik is an Estonian adjective meaning clever, inventive, or resourceful. It is used to describe people, ideas, or methods that show practical ingenuity and the ability to find effective workarounds in challenging situations.

Etymology: The word is derived from the verb leidma, to find, with the suffix -lik forming adjectives that indicate a quality or characteristic. The related noun leidlikkus denotes resourcefulness or ingenuity.

Usage: In contemporary Estonian, leidlik describes someone who can quickly devise practical solutions, often with limited resources. It appears in journalism, administration, and everyday speech. Examples include phrases like ta on leidlik lahendaja (they are a resourceful problem-solver) or leidlik mõistus (a resourceful mind). The sense is broadly positive and emphasizes constructive problem-solving rather than trickery.

Cross-linguistic notes: The term is commonly rendered as "resourceful" or "ingenious" in English. It conveys a positive assessment of practical competence and adaptability, and it is used across various registers from formal writing to casual conversation.