sõbraliku

Sõbraliku is the genitive singular form of the Estonian adjective sõbralik, meaning “friendly.” In Estonian, adjectives decline to agree with the noun they modify in number and case, so sõbraliku appears when the modified noun is in the genitive singular.

Usage and examples

Sõbraliku is used before a genitive-noun to describe possession or a relationship, for example: sõbraliku inimese tähelepanu (“the attention of a friendly person”) and sõbraliku koera omanik (“the owner of a friendly dog”). The base form is sõbralik; the comparative is sõbralikum (more friendly), and the superlative is kõige sõbralikum (the most friendly).

Etymology and meaning

The adjective sõbralik derives from the noun sõber (friend) with a derivational suffix -lik, conveying the sense of being “like a friend” or possessing the qualities of a friend. The corresponding noun form is sõbralikkus, meaning “friendliness.”

Usage notes

Sõbraliku describes people, behavior, or environments that are approachable, kind, and pleasant. It is commonly used in everyday language as well as in formal writing. Antonyms include ebasõbralik (unfriendly) or mitte-sõbralik in certain contexts. In contrast to more intense terms, sõbralik emphasizes amiable, courteous, and cooperative qualities.

Related terms

- sõbralik (positive form)

- sõbralikkus (noun: friendliness)

- sõber (friend)

See also

Sõbraliku forms illustrate how Estonian adjectives decline to align with case endings, showcasing the language’s system of agreement between adjectives and nouns.