pahatahtlikud

Pahatahtlikud is the plural form of the Estonian adjective pahatahtlik, meaning ill-intentioned or malicious. The word can function as an adjective or, in some contexts, as a substantive referring to people or groups who act with harmful intent. It is used to describe individuals, actions, or plans that are driven by a deliberate desire to cause harm or disadvantage.

Etymology and form: pahatahtlik is built from paha, meaning bad, and taht, meaning will or desire. The form pahatahtlikud is the plural nominative to agree with a plural noun, for example pahatahtlikud inimesed (ill-intentioned people) or pahatahtlikud teod (malicious acts). The related noun pahatahtlikkus denotes malice or ill will.

Usage and nuance: pahatahtlikud carries a strong, evaluative tone and is typically used in contexts where there is a claim of deliberate bad intent. It is common in journalism, politics, and everyday speech when labeling actions or actors as malicious, rather than merely careless or incompetent. Its usage implies a judgment about motive in addition to the effect of the actions.

Examples: Pahatahtlikud teod võivad kahjustada kogukonda. Ta on pahatahtlik inimene, kes levitab valesid kuulujutte.

See also: pahatahtlikkus, pahatahtlikkuslik kirjeldus isomorfi.