Õpetatel

õpetatel is a grammatical case in the Estonian language. It is the plural form of the partitive case. The partitive case is used to indicate an indefinite quantity, a part of something, or an incomplete action. In Estonian, the partitive case is also used with certain verbs that express incomplete or indefinite actions, such as eating, drinking, or reading. The plural partitive, or õpetatel, is used when these indefinite quantities or actions apply to multiple items.

For example, if one is eating an apple, the word "õuna" (apple) would be in the singular partitive. However, if one is eating apples (an indefinite number of them), "õunu" (apples) would be in the plural partitive, õpetatel. Similarly, if someone is reading a book, "raamatut" (book) would be singular partitive. Reading books (an indefinite number) would use "raamatuid" (books) in the plural partitive.

The õpetatel form is typically created by adding the suffix -id or -sid to the stem of the noun. The specific ending depends on the noun's declension class and the preceding sounds. This case is crucial for conveying nuances of quantity and the completeness of actions in Estonian grammar, distinguishing it from other cases that might indicate a definite or whole quantity. Understanding the õpetatel is essential for accurate and natural communication in Estonian.