varasemad

Varasemad is an Estonian adjective form meaning "earlier" or "former" and is used to describe more than one item that is prior in time or previously mentioned. It functions as the plural nominative form of varasem, the comparative of varane (early). In practice, varasemad appears when referring to multiple objects, events, or periods that are earlier than a reference point.

Usage and nuance: Varasem and eelmine both convey an idea of earlier time, but varasem emphasizes prior in time rather than immediate succession. For example, varasemad uuringud refer to earlier studies, while eelmine uuring would point to the most recently preceding study. Varasem is common in formal, academic, and journalistic writing to discuss historical data, previous versions, or prior contexts.

Grammatical notes: Like other Estonian adjectives, varasemad declines according to number, case, and definiteness of the noun it modifies. In the plural nominative it is varasemad; in other forms such as genitive or in singular, different endings apply (for example varasema in the genitive singular, varasemate in the genitive plural). The word pairs easily with nouns such as aastad (years), uuringud (studies), versioonid (versions), and ajad (times).

See also: eelmine; varasemus, varasemlikness (discussed in linguistic contexts referring to prior state).

Varasemad is a neutral term used to situate information within a timeline or sequence, without implying judgement about the quality or significance of what preceded.