tõrjub

Tõrjub is an Estonian verb meaning to repel, ward off, or push away. It is used for both literal defense—preventing an attack or intrusion—and figurative resistance, such as resisting an influence, temptation, or objection. The action is directed toward a target and can be combined with adverbs like eemale (away) to indicate the direction of the push.

The verb is derived from the root tõrju-, with the infinitive form tõrjuma. In present tense, the standard third-person singular form is tõrjub (ta tõrjub). Other present forms follow regular Estonian conjugation patterns (for example, I: tõrjun, you: tõrjud, we: tõrjume). The past tense form is typically tõrjus for singular subjects, with corresponding forms for plural, and the past participle is commonly tõrjunud in certain constructions. While used transitively, the exact case of the object can vary, and the phrase often appears with directional or locative complements like eemale or other adverbial phrases to specify what is being repelled and in what direction.

In usage, tõrjub frequently appears in contexts such as defending a position, repelling an attack, or resisting an unwanted influence or intrusion. It can be found in both journalistic and literary registers, as well as in everyday speech, where speakers describe acts of pushing something away or standing firm against an opposing force. Related terms include tõrje (the act of repelling or warding off) and tõrjuma (the verb family to repel).