põruma

Põruma is an Estonian verb that describes the act of stumbling, tripping, or failing. It can be used in a literal sense to refer to a physical misstep that causes someone to lose their balance. For example, someone might põruma on a loose stone or an uneven surface.

More metaphorically, põruma can describe a failure in a task, project, or endeavor. This could involve not achieving a desired outcome, making a significant mistake, or experiencing a setback. For instance, a business might põruma if it fails to meet its financial goals, or an athlete might põruma in a competition. The verb often implies a sudden or unexpected failure, rather than a gradual decline.

The word can also be used to describe a mental or emotional faltering. Someone might feel their resolve põruma when faced with a difficult challenge, or their confidence might põruma after a series of failures. In essence, põruma conveys a sense of losing one's footing, whether physically, metaphorically, or emotionally. It is a versatile verb that captures a range of negative outcomes, from minor stumbles to significant failures.