üldnimetust

Üldnimetus is a term in Estonian linguistics that designates a generic designation—the name of a class of objects rather than a single item. The word is formed from the prefix ühend “üld-” meaning general and nimetus meaning designation or term. The nominative singular form is üldnimetus; in grammar the genitive singular is üldnimetuse and the partitive singular is üldnimetust, the form you mentioned.

Semantically, üldnimetus names a class or category rather than a particular member. This makes it a tool for talking about groups of objects rather than specific instances. In everyday language such terms function as common nouns that can refer to an entire class, for example a word like koer (dog) used to denote the general class of dogs, or lind (bird) for birds in general. The exact interpretation can depend on context, number, and definiteness.

The concept is used primarily in linguistic description, lexicography, and education when distinguishing between generic designations and more specific or individual names. It helps clarify when a term refers to a whole category versus a single item, and it can interact with grammatical number and case in Estonian sentences.

In summary, üldnimetus denotes a generic designation or class name in Estonian, with üldnimetust being its partitive singular form. It is a technical term used to distinguish class-level naming from individual or proper-name designations within linguistic and lexicographic discussions.