Õigupoolest

Õigupoolest is a Estonian adverb meaning in fact, to tell the truth, or actually. It is commonly used as a discourse marker to introduce a correction, clarification, or a more precise statement, often following or replacing a previous assertion. In English it is roughly equivalent to to be honest or in reality.

Etymology and sense: the word is formed from the elements meaning something like correct or proper (õige) and the suffix poolest, which conveys a sense of regard or consideration, such as in terms of or in respect to. The combination signals that what follows reflects accuracy or truth, contrasting with a prior, perhaps imperfect, statement. The term is widely understood in Estonian and has established use in everyday language.

Usage and register: õigus poolest is a common, informal to semi-formal expression used in spoken Estonian and in some journalistic or explanatory writing. In formal writing, speakers may prefer stronger or more neutral alternatives such as tõepoolest (indeed) or ausalt öeldes (to be honest). Õigupoolest can appear at the beginning of a sentence or within it to set a corrective or clarifying tone.

Examples:

- Õigupoolest ma ei tahtnud seda öelda. (To be honest, I didn’t want to say that.)

- Õigupoolest on see lahendus lihtne ja kiire. (In fact, this solution is simple and quick.)

See also: related expressions include tõepoolest and ausalt öeldes, which convey similar notions of truthfulness or correction, though with different nuance and formality.