tõelisem

Tõelisem is the comparative form of the Estonian adjective tõeline, meaning true, genuine, or real. It denotes a higher degree of truth, authenticity, or sincerity than the base form. As a comparative adjective, tõelisem agrees with the noun it modifies in number and case.

Etymology and forms: The word is derived from the root tõeline, which itself relates to the noun tõde, truth. The comparative suffix -em is added to form tõelisem, with the usual inflection rules of Estonian adjectives applying in each context. Plural and declined forms follow standard Estonian adjective paradigms (tõelisem, tõelisemad, tõelisemale, etc.).

Usage and nuance: Tõelisem is most often found in formal, literary, or rhetorical contexts where a stronger claim about truth or authenticity is intended. It emphasizes that something is more true or more genuine than another thing. In everyday speech, speakers may opt for simpler alternatives such as tõeline or aus, depending on nuance and emphasis.

Examples:

- See on tõelisem lahendus kui varasemalt pakutud. (This is a more genuine/real solution than the one previously offered.)

- Ta püüab jätta endast tõelisema mulje kui keegi teine. (He aims to leave a more sincere impression than others.)

Related terms include tõeline (the positive form), tõde (truth), tõelisus (truthfulness or genuineness), and tõeliselt (adverb meaning truly or genuinely). Tõelisem thus occupies a specific slot in Estonian where a sharper contrast in truth or authenticity is communicated.