varsti

Varsti is an Estonian adverb meaning "soon" or "shortly." It indicates that an event is expected to occur in the near future. The pronunciation is commonly given as [ˈvɑrsti]. It is an invariable word and does not change with tense or subject; the verb in the sentence carries the tense.

Usage and function: Varsti can appear at the beginning of a clause for emphasis or directly before the main verb. It is widely used in everyday speech, as well as in journalism and visible writing, to signal that something will happen soon. It can be combined with other time expressions to add nuance, such as to specify a broader time frame (for example, in phrases that mean “shortly after” or “soon thereafter”).

Examples:

- Varsti lähme koju. (We will go home soon.)

- Varsti algab film. (The movie starts soon.)

- Ole valmis, varsti tuleb keegi. (Be ready, someone will come soon.)

Etymology and status: Varsti is a native Estonian word and a standard part of its temporal vocabulary. Detailed historic etymology is not typically summarized in brief references, but it is established in standard Estonian usage spanning formal and informal contexts.

Range and nuances: The word conveys immediacy but does not specify an exact time; the precise moment is inferred from context, intonation, and accompanying time expressions. In more formal prose, varsti may be paired with additional clarifications to avoid ambiguity about timing.