tulevikuks

Tulevikuks is an Estonian phrase meaning “for the future” or “into the future.” It is formed from tulevik, meaning “future,” and the translative suffix -uks, which marks a change of state or function, yielding a sense of purpose or direction toward the future.

Etymology and grammar: Tulevikuks uses the translative case ending -uks to indicate transformation, direction, or intended purpose. The phrase is commonly used in formal, educational, and policy language to express planning, preparation, or goals related to what comes next. It can function as part of a predicate or as a modifier in sentences that describe activities aimed at future outcomes.

Usage: In Estonian, tulevikuks is used to frame actions or preparations that are intended to affect the future. Examples include phrases like “Selle projekti mõte on tulevikuks valmis olla” (The idea of this project is to be ready for the future) or “Me peame tegutsema tulevikuks” (We must act for the future). The construction emphasizes forward-looking planning and responsibility, rather than immediate past or present concerns.

Translations and related terms: The closest English equivalents are “for the future” and “into the future.” Related Estonian terms include tulevik (future) and translative cases that express purpose or change of state.

See also: Tulevik, Estonian grammar, translative case.

Notes: Tulevikuks is a literal and formal expression; in everyday speech, speakers may use alternative phrasing such as “tulevikuks ettevalmistamiseks” (for preparation for the future) or contextual paraphrases depending on the sentence.