Õppijateks

Õppijateks is an Estonian word in the translative form of the noun õppija, meaning a learner or student. The translative case (translatiiv) marks a change of state or designation, so õppijateks conveys “into the state of being learners” or “as learners,” typically referring to a group.

Formation and form: The base noun is õppija (a learner). The plural genitive stem is õppijate. Adding the translative suffix -ks yields õppijateks, the form used for plural subjects becoming or designated as learners. The singular translative form would be õppijaks.

Usage: The form is used with verbs of becoming or designation, such as saama (to become) or muutuma (to change into): nad said õppijateks (they became learners). It can also appear in program or project descriptions to denote the role of participants within a learning context: Kõik osalejad saavad õppijateks (All participants will become learners / take on the role of learners).

Differences from related terms: õppija denotes a learner in general, while õppijateks emphasizes a role or state rather than an institution. In contrast, õpilane refers more to a pupil or student in formal schooling. The choice between õppijateks and related terms reflects nuance about context and the intended designation of the group.

Examples:

- Pärast koolitust said osalejatest õppijateks.

- Uues projektis kõik kaasatud said õppijateks ja omandasid vastavaid oskusi.

See also: translatiiv (translative) case in Estonian, õppima, õppija, õpilane, õppimine.