saabumas

Saabumas is a term used in some linguistic discussions to describe a non-finite Estonian verb form associated with imminent action. It is not part of the standard Estonian grammars widely taught or used in official dictionaries. The term appears mainly in academic writings as a point of reference in discussions of mood, aspect, and non-finite forms.

Etymology and form: The word saabumas is formed from a root meaning “to arrive” or “to become,” combined with a non-finite or gerund-like suffix. In this usage, saabumas is interpreted as “arriving” or “about to occur.” The construction is treated as a theoretical tool rather than a routinely documented morphological category.

Function and usage: In theoretical works, saabumas is discussed to illustrate how Estonian can encode immediacy or impending events without requiring a finite tense. It is typically cited in arguments about how non-finite forms relate to aspect or event structure. It is not widely recognized as a standard or productive form in everyday speech or in mainstream reference grammars.

Examples and translations: Because saabumas is primarily encountered in limited scholarly discussions, concrete, canonical example sentences are scarce. When it is used, translations generally render it as “coming,” “arriving,” or “about to occur,” depending on context and the surrounding verb system.

See also: Estonian grammar; non-finite verb forms; participles; aspect.