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<div class="pg_page_title">[[Language/Standard-estonian|Standard Estonian]]  → [[Language/Standard-estonian/Grammar|Grammar]] → [[Language/Standard-estonian/Grammar/0-to-A1-Course|0 to A1 Course]] → Negation and Questions → Question Words and Formation</div>
<div class="pg_page_title">[[Language/Standard-estonian|Standard Estonian]]  → [[Language/Standard-estonian/Grammar|Grammar]] → [[Language/Standard-estonian/Grammar/0-to-A1-Course|0 to A1 Course]] → Question Words and Formation</div>
 
Welcome to another exciting lesson in our journey through Standard Estonian! Today, we will delve into an essential aspect of the language: '''question words and formation'''. Understanding how to ask questions is crucial for effective communication, whether you are making new friends, seeking information, or exploring the vibrant culture of Estonia. Questions are the gateway to meaningful conversations, and mastering them will empower you to engage with others confidently.
 
In this lesson, we will cover:
 
* The importance of question words in Estonian
 
* Common question words and their meanings
 
* How to form questions using different structures
 
* Practical examples illustrating each point
 
* Exercises to reinforce what you've learned
 
By the end of this lesson, you'll be well-equipped to ask questions in various situations. So, let’s get started!


__TOC__
__TOC__


<h2>Introduction</h2>
=== The Importance of Question Words ===


In this lesson, we will explore the topic of forming questions in Estonian using question words and different sentence structures. Asking questions is an essential skill in any language, as it allows us to seek information, clarify understanding, and engage in meaningful conversations. By understanding how to form questions in Estonian, you will be able to communicate more effectively and confidently with native speakers.
Question words, known as '''küsisõnad''' in Estonian, are vital for communication. They allow us to inquire about various aspects of life, from seeking basic information to expressing curiosity about the world around us. Question words help us:


Throughout this lesson, we will cover various question words and their usage, as well as the different sentence structures used to form questions. We will provide numerous examples and exercises to help you practice and reinforce your understanding. Additionally, we will explore any regional variations in the usage of question words and provide interesting cultural facts related to questioning in Estonian.
* Gather information


<h2>Question Words</h2>
* Clarify doubts


Question words, also known as interrogative words, are used to ask specific types of questions. In Estonian, question words are similar to those in many other languages, such as English. Let's explore some common question words in Estonian:
* Initiate conversations


<h3>Kes? (Who?)</h3>
* Express interest in a topic


The question word "kes" is used to ask about a person or people. It is equivalent to the English word "who." Here are some examples:
In Estonian, asking questions is not only about the words used; it's also about the structure of the sentence. This lesson will guide you through the nuances of forming questions effectively.
 
=== Common Question Words ===
 
Let’s begin by listing the most frequently used question words in Estonian. Each word serves a specific purpose, so understanding their meanings will help you ask precise questions.


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
! Standard Estonian !! Pronunciation !! English Translation
 
! Standard Estonian !! Pronunciation !! English
 
|-
|-
| Kes see on? || [kɛs sɛː ɔn] || Who is this?
 
| kes || kes || who
 
|-
|-
| Kes on sinu parim sõber? || [kɛs ɔn sinu parim sɤbɛɾ] || Who is your best friend?
 
| mis || mis || what
 
|-
|-
| Kellega sa räägid? || [kɛllɛga sa raːgiːd] || Who are you talking to?
|}


<h3>Mis? (What?)</h3>
| kus || kus || where
 
|-


The question word "mis" is used to ask about things or objects. It is equivalent to the English word "what." Here are some examples:
| millal || mil-lal || when


{| class="wikitable"
! Standard Estonian !! Pronunciation !! English Translation
|-
|-
| Mis see on? || [mis sɛː ɔn] || What is this?
 
| miks || miks || why
 
|-
|-
| Mis on sinu lemmikvärv? || [mis ɔn sinu lɛmikʋæɾʋ] || What is your favorite color?
 
| kuidas || kui-das || how
 
|-
|-
| Mida sa teed? || [mida sa teːd] || What are you doing?
 
| kui palju || kui pal-dju || how much/many
 
|}
|}


<h3>Kuhu? (Where?)</h3>
These words form the backbone of your questioning toolkit. Let’s explore each one in more detail.


The question word "kuhu" is used to ask about a location or destination. It is equivalent to the English word "where." Here are some examples:
=== Forming Questions ===
 
In Estonian, the structure of a question can vary based on the question word used. Below are some examples of how to form questions using different question words.
 
==== Using "Kes" (Who) ====
 
When you're asking about a person, you typically start with "kes." The verb usually follows the question word.
 
''Example 1:''


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
! Standard Estonian !! Pronunciation !! English Translation
 
! Standard Estonian !! Pronunciation !! English
 
|-
|-
| Kuhu sa lähed? || [kuhu sa læːhɛd] || Where are you going?
 
| Kes see on? || kes se on? || Who is this?
 
|-
|-
| Kuhu sa reisid? || [kuhu sa rei̯sid] || Where are you traveling to?
 
|-
| Kes nad on? || kes nad on? || Who are they?
| Kuhu sa tahad minna? || [kuhu sa tahad minːa] || Where do you want to go?
 
|}
|}


<h3>Kuidas? (How?)</h3>
==== Using "Mis" (What) ====


The question word "kuidas" is used to ask about the manner or way something is done. It is equivalent to the English word "how." Here are some examples:
For inquiring about objects or concepts, "mis" is your go-to word.
 
''Example 2:''


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
! Standard Estonian !! Pronunciation !! English Translation
 
! Standard Estonian !! Pronunciation !! English
 
|-
|-
| Kuidas sa seda teed? || [kuidas sa sɛːda teːd] || How do you do it?
 
| Mis see on? || mis se on? || What is this?
 
|-
|-
| Kuidas sul läheb? || [kuidas sul læːhɛb] || How are you doing?
 
|-
| Mis sa teed? || mis sa teed? || What are you doing?
| Kuidas ma sinna jõuan? || [kuidas ma sinːa jɤuan] || How do I get there?
 
|}
|}


<h3>Miks? (Why?)</h3>
==== Using "Kus" (Where) ====


The question word "miks" is used to ask about the reason or cause of something. It is equivalent to the English word "why." Here are some examples:
When seeking information about a location, use "kus."
 
''Example 3:''


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
! Standard Estonian !! Pronunciation !! English Translation
 
! Standard Estonian !! Pronunciation !! English
 
|-
|-
| Miks sa siia tulid? || [miks sa siːa tulid] || Why did you come here?
 
| Kus sa oled? || kus sa oled? || Where are you?
 
|-
|-
| Miks sa ei taha tulla? || [miks sa ei taha tulla] || Why don't you want to come?
 
|-
| Kus nad on? || kus nad on? || Where are they?
| Miks see juhtus? || [miks sɛː ʒuhtus] || Why did that happen?
 
|}
|}


<h3>Millal? (When?)</h3>
==== Using "Millal" (When) ====


The question word "millal" is used to ask about a specific time or moment. It is equivalent to the English word "when." Here are some examples:
To ask about time, "millal" is essential.
 
''Example 4:''


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
! Standard Estonian !! Pronunciation !! English Translation
 
! Standard Estonian !! Pronunciation !! English
 
|-
|-
| Millal sa sünnipäeva tähistad? || [millal sa synːipæːʋa tæhistad] || When do you celebrate your birthday?
 
| Millal tuled? || mil-lal tu-led? || When are you coming?
 
|-
|-
| Millal sa koju lähed? || [millal sa koju læːhɛd] || When are you going home?
 
|-
| Millal see algab? || mil-lal se al-gab? || When does it start?
| Millal see juhtus? || [millal sɛː ʒuhtus] || When did that happen?
 
|}
|}


<h3>Kas? (Do/Did/Is/Are?)</h3>
==== Using "Miks" (Why) ====


The question word "kas" is used to ask yes/no questions. It is equivalent to the English words "do," "did," "is," or "are." Here are some examples:
To inquire about reasons, use "miks."
 
''Example 5:''


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
! Standard Estonian !! Pronunciation !! English Translation
 
! Standard Estonian !! Pronunciation !! English
 
|-
|-
| Kas sa tuled homme? || [kas sa tulɛd homːɛ] || Are you coming tomorrow?
 
| Miks sa naerad? || miks sa nai-rad? || Why are you laughing?
 
|-
|-
| Kas sulle meeldib see? || [kas sullɛ mɛːldib sɛː] || Do you like it?
 
|-
| Miks see on oluline? || miks se on o-lu-li-ne? || Why is this important?
| Kas sa oled õnnelik? || [kas sa olɛd ɤnnɛlik] || Are you happy?
 
|}
|}


These are just a few examples of the question words used in Estonian. There are additional question words that we will explore in later lessons. It's important to practice using question words in different sentence structures to develop your understanding and fluency in forming questions.
==== Using "Kuidas" (How) ====


<h2>Question Formation</h2>
To ask about the manner or method, "kuidas" is appropriate.


In addition to question words, the formation of questions in Estonian involves different sentence structures. Let's explore some common ways of forming questions:
''Example 6:''


<h3>Inversion</h3>
{| class="wikitable"


One common way of forming questions in Estonian is through subject-verb inversion. This means that the verb and subject are switched in the sentence. Here are some examples:
! Standard Estonian !! Pronunciation !! English


{| class="wikitable"
! Standard Estonian !! Pronunciation !! English Translation
|-
|-
| Sa räägid eesti keelt. || [sa raːgiːd ɛsti keːlt] || You speak Estonian.
 
| Kuidas sul läheb? || kui-das sul lä-heb? || How are you?
 
|-
|-
| Kas sa räägid eesti keelt? || [kas sa raːgiːd ɛsti keːlt] || Do you speak Estonian?
 
|-
| Kuidas seda teha? || kui-das se-da te-ha? || How to do this?
| Ta läheb koju. || [ta læːhɛb koju] || He/She is going home.
 
|-
| Kas ta läheb koju? || [kas ta læːhɛb koju] || Is he/she going home?
|}
|}


As you can see, in the first sentence, the subject "sa" (you) comes before the verb "räägid" (speak). However, in the question, the verb "räägid" (speak) comes before the subject "sa" (you), resulting in the inverted word order.
==== Using "Kui palju" (How much/many) ====
 
Finally, for questions about quantity, "kui palju" is used.


It's important to note that subject-verb inversion is not always necessary to form a question in Estonian. In informal speech, questions can be formed without inversion by using question words or intonation.
''Example 7:''


<h3>Using Question Words</h3>
{| class="wikitable"


As we discussed earlier, question words play a crucial role in forming questions. By using question words, you can ask specific types of questions. Here are some examples:
! Standard Estonian !! Pronunciation !! English


{| class="wikitable"
! Standard Estonian !! Pronunciation !! English Translation
|-
|-
| Sa räägid eesti keelt. || [sa raːgiːd ɛsti keːlt] || You speak Estonian.
 
| Kui palju see maksab? || kui pal-dju se mak-sab? || How much does this cost?
 
|-
|-
| Mis keelt sa räägid? || [mis keːlt sa raːgiːd] || What language do you speak?
 
|-
| Kui palju inimesi on? || kui pal-dju i-ni-me-si on? || How many people are there?
| Kuhu sa lähed? || [kuhu sa læːhɛd] || Where are you going?
 
|-
| Millal sa lähed? || [millal sa læːhɛd] || When are you going?
|}
|}


In these examples, the question words "mis" (what) and "kuhu" (where) are used to ask about the language and destination, respectively. By incorporating question words into your questions, you can seek specific information and engage in more meaningful conversations.
=== Question Formation with Verb Placement ===
 
In Estonian, the placement of verbs can change when forming questions. Here's a quick overview:
 
1. '''Subject-Verb-Object (SVO)''': The standard structure for statements.
 
* Example: "Sa näed mind." (You see me.)
 
2. '''Question Formation''': The question word often comes first, followed by the verb and then the subject.
 
* Example: "Kus sa oled?" (Where are you?)
 
This inversion is key to clearly indicating a question in Estonian.
 
=== Practice Exercises ===
 
Now that you have a solid understanding of question words and formation, let’s put your knowledge to the test with some exercises!
 
==== Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks ====
 
Complete the questions using the appropriate question word:
 
1. ___ see on? (What)
 
2. ___ sa tuled? (When)
 
3. ___ nad on? (Who)
 
4. ___ see maksab? (How much)
 
5. ___ sa oled? (Where)
 
''Solutions:''
 
1. Mis see on?
 
2. Millal sa tuled?
 
3. Kes nad on?
 
4. Kui palju see maksab?
 
5. Kus sa oled?
 
==== Exercise 2: Identify the Question Words ====
 
Read the questions and identify the question words used:
 
1. Miks sa naerad?
 
2. Kuidas sul läheb?
 
3. Mis see on?
 
4. Kus nad on?
 
5. Millal see algab?
 
''Solutions:''
 
1. Miks (Why)
 
2. Kuidas (How)
 
3. Mis (What)
 
4. Kus (Where)
 
5. Millal (When)
 
==== Exercise 3: Create Your Own Questions ====
 
Using the given question words, write your own questions:
 
1. Kes: ______________
 
2. Mis: ______________
 
3. Kus: ______________
 
4. Millal: ______________
 
5. Miks: ______________
 
''Solutions will vary based on student responses.''
 
==== Exercise 4: Transform Statements into Questions ====
 
Transform the following statements into questions:
 
1. Sa näed mind. (You see me.)
 
2. Nad tulevad homme. (They are coming tomorrow.)
 
3. Ta on arst. (He/She is a doctor.)
 
4. Me sööme õuna. (We are eating an apple.)
 
5. See on ilus. (This is beautiful.)
 
''Solutions:''
 
1. Kas sa näed mind? (Do you see me?)
 
2. Kas nad tulevad homme? (Are they coming tomorrow?)
 
3. Kes on arst? (Who is the doctor?)
 
4. Mis me sööme? (What are we eating?)
 
5. Miks see on ilus? (Why is this beautiful?)
 
==== Exercise 5: Match the Questions to Their Meanings ====
 
Match the Estonian questions to their English translations:
 
| Estonian Question | English Translation |
 
|------------------|---------------------|
 
| 1. Miks sa naerad? | A. Where are you? |
 
| 2. Kuidas sul läheb? | B. What is this? |
 
| 3. Mis see on? | C. How are you? |
 
| 4. Kus sa oled? | D. Why are you laughing? |
 
''Solutions:''
 
1 - D
 
2 - C
 
3 - B
 
4 - A
 
==== Exercise 6: Choose the Correct Question Word ====
 
Select the appropriate question word for each sentence:
 
1. ___ sa teed? (What / Who)
 
2. ___ see on? (Where / What)


<h3>Tag Questions</h3>
3. ___ nad tulevad? (When / Why)


Tag questions are another way of forming questions in Estonian. Tag questions are short phrases added at the end of a statement to turn it into a question. Here are some examples:
4. ___ see on oluline? (How / Why)


{| class="wikitable"
5. ___ palju inimesi on? (How much / Where)
! Standard Estonian !! Pronunciation !! English Translation
 
|-
''Solutions:''
| Sa räägid eesti keelt. || [sa raːgiːd ɛsti keːlt] || You speak Estonian.
 
|-
1. Mis sa teed?
| Sa räägid eesti keelt, eks? || [sa raːgiːd ɛsti keːlt eks] || You speak Estonian, right?
 
|-
2. Mis see on?
| Ta läheb koju. || [ta læːhɛb koju] || He/She is going home.
 
|-
3. Millal nad tulevad?
| Ta läheb koju, kas pole? || [ta læːhɛb koju kas polɛ] || He/She is going home, isn't he/she?
 
|}
4. Miks see on oluline?
 
5. Kui palju inimesi on?


In these examples, the tag phrases "eks" and "kas pole" are added at the end of the statements to form tag questions. Tag questions are often used to seek confirmation or agreement from the listener.
==== Exercise 7: Ask Follow-Up Questions ====


<h2>Cultural Insights</h2>
Based on the answers provided, ask follow-up questions:


As we explore the topic of questions in Estonian, it's interesting to note some cultural insights related to questioning in Estonian society.
1. A: "Ma olen Eestis." (I am in Estonia.)


In Estonian culture, directness and clarity are valued when asking questions. Estonians tend to ask questions directly without much preamble or small talk. It is common to ask questions that may seem personal or intrusive in other cultures, such as questions about one's family, income, or relationship status. However, it is important to note that this directness is often not meant to be rude or intrusive but rather reflects the Estonian communication style.
Q: ___?


Additionally, Estonians value honesty and expect honest answers to their questions. It is considered impolite to give evasive or vague answers when asked a direct question. If you are unsure about the answer or prefer not to answer, it is better to politely decline or explain your reasons rather than providing a misleading response.
2. A: "Ta on õpetaja." (He/She is a teacher.)


Culturally, it is also important to respect personal space and boundaries when asking questions. While Estonians may ask direct questions, they also value privacy and may not appreciate intrusive or overly personal questions from strangers or acquaintances.
Q: ___?


Understanding these cultural insights can help you navigate conversations and interactions in Estonian-speaking contexts, ensuring that you communicate effectively and respectfully.
3. A: "Me tuleme homme." (We are coming tomorrow.)


<h2>Exercises</h2>
Q: ___?


Now it's time to practice what you've learned! Below are some exercises to help you reinforce your understanding of forming questions in Estonian. Try to answer each question and then compare your answers with the provided solutions.
''Solutions will vary based on student responses.''


Exercise 1: Forming Questions
==== Exercise 8: True or False ====


Rewrite the following statements as questions using the appropriate question word or structure.
Determine whether the following statements are true or false based on your understanding of question words:


Example: Ta elab Tallinnas. (He/She lives in Tallinn.)
1. "Kus" is used to ask about time. (True / False)
Question: Kus ta elab? (Where does he/she live?)


1. Sa räägid inglise keelt. (You speak English.)
2. "Miks" means "what." (True / False)
Question: ______ sa räägid? (What language do you speak?)


2. Ta läheb homme reisile. (He/She is going on a trip tomorrow.)
3. "Kuidas" is used to inquire about a person's feelings. (True / False)
Question: ______ ta läheb reisile? (When is he/she going on a trip?)


3. See on sinu raamat. (This is your book.)
4. "Kui palju" is for asking about quantity. (True / False)
Question: ______ see on? (Whose is this?)


Exercise 2: Tag Questions
5. "Kes" is used to ask about objects. (True / False)


Complete the following statements with the appropriate tag question.
''Solutions:''


Example: Sa räägid eesti keelt, ______? (You speak Estonian, right?)
1. False
Answer: eks


1. Sa oled õnnelik, ______? (You are happy, aren't you?)
2. False
Answer: kas pole


2. Ta saabub homme, ______? (He/She is arriving tomorrow, isn't he/she?)
3. True
Answer: eks


3. Sa tahad seda süüa, ______? (You want to eat this, don't you?)
4. True
Answer: kas pole


<h3>Exercise 1: Solution</h3>
5. False


1. Mis sa räägid? (What language do you speak?)
==== Exercise 9: Construct a Dialogue ====
2. Millal ta läheb reisile? (When is he/she going on a trip?)
3. Kelle oma see on? (Whose is this?)


<h3>Exercise 2: Solution</h3>
Create a short dialogue using at least 5 questions with different question words. Consider a scenario like meeting someone new or asking for directions.


1. eks
''Solutions will vary based on student responses.''
2. eks
3. kas pole


Congratulations on completing the exercises! By practicing these question formations, you are one step closer to mastering the art of forming questions in Estonian.
==== Exercise 10: Role Play ====


<h2>Conclusion</h2>
Pair up with a classmate and practice asking and answering questions using the question words learned in this lesson. Switch roles after a few minutes.


In this lesson, we have explored the topic of forming questions in Estonian using question words and different sentence structures. We have learned about common question words such as "kes" (who), "mis" (what), "kuhu" (where), "kuidas" (how), "miks" (why), "millal" (when), and "kas" (do/did/is/are). We have also discussed the different ways of forming questions, including subject-verb inversion and the use of question words and tag questions.
''Solutions will vary based on student responses.''


Remember to practice forming questions in different contexts and engage in conversations with native speakers to further develop your skills. Asking questions is not only a valuable tool for acquiring information but also for building connections and developing a deeper understanding of Estonian language and culture.
=== Conclusion ===


Continue your language learning journey with the next lesson in the course, where we will delve into more advanced grammar topics. Until then, jätkake head tööd! (Keep up the good work!)
Congratulations on completing this lesson on question words and formation in Standard Estonian! You’re now equipped with the tools to ask questions confidently and engage in conversations. Remember, practice is key to mastering any language, so keep asking questions and exploring the beauty of Estonian!


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Latest revision as of 02:47, 2 August 2024

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Standard Estonian → Grammar → 0 to A1 Course → Question Words and Formation

Welcome to another exciting lesson in our journey through Standard Estonian! Today, we will delve into an essential aspect of the language: question words and formation. Understanding how to ask questions is crucial for effective communication, whether you are making new friends, seeking information, or exploring the vibrant culture of Estonia. Questions are the gateway to meaningful conversations, and mastering them will empower you to engage with others confidently.

In this lesson, we will cover:

  • The importance of question words in Estonian
  • Common question words and their meanings
  • How to form questions using different structures
  • Practical examples illustrating each point
  • Exercises to reinforce what you've learned

By the end of this lesson, you'll be well-equipped to ask questions in various situations. So, let’s get started!

The Importance of Question Words[edit | edit source]

Question words, known as küsisõnad in Estonian, are vital for communication. They allow us to inquire about various aspects of life, from seeking basic information to expressing curiosity about the world around us. Question words help us:

  • Gather information
  • Clarify doubts
  • Initiate conversations
  • Express interest in a topic

In Estonian, asking questions is not only about the words used; it's also about the structure of the sentence. This lesson will guide you through the nuances of forming questions effectively.

Common Question Words[edit | edit source]

Let’s begin by listing the most frequently used question words in Estonian. Each word serves a specific purpose, so understanding their meanings will help you ask precise questions.

Standard Estonian Pronunciation English
kes kes who
mis mis what
kus kus where
millal mil-lal when
miks miks why
kuidas kui-das how
kui palju kui pal-dju how much/many

These words form the backbone of your questioning toolkit. Let’s explore each one in more detail.

Forming Questions[edit | edit source]

In Estonian, the structure of a question can vary based on the question word used. Below are some examples of how to form questions using different question words.

Using "Kes" (Who)[edit | edit source]

When you're asking about a person, you typically start with "kes." The verb usually follows the question word.

Example 1:

Standard Estonian Pronunciation English
Kes see on? kes se on? Who is this?
Kes nad on? kes nad on? Who are they?

Using "Mis" (What)[edit | edit source]

For inquiring about objects or concepts, "mis" is your go-to word.

Example 2:

Standard Estonian Pronunciation English
Mis see on? mis se on? What is this?
Mis sa teed? mis sa teed? What are you doing?

Using "Kus" (Where)[edit | edit source]

When seeking information about a location, use "kus."

Example 3:

Standard Estonian Pronunciation English
Kus sa oled? kus sa oled? Where are you?
Kus nad on? kus nad on? Where are they?

Using "Millal" (When)[edit | edit source]

To ask about time, "millal" is essential.

Example 4:

Standard Estonian Pronunciation English
Millal tuled? mil-lal tu-led? When are you coming?
Millal see algab? mil-lal se al-gab? When does it start?

Using "Miks" (Why)[edit | edit source]

To inquire about reasons, use "miks."

Example 5:

Standard Estonian Pronunciation English
Miks sa naerad? miks sa nai-rad? Why are you laughing?
Miks see on oluline? miks se on o-lu-li-ne? Why is this important?

Using "Kuidas" (How)[edit | edit source]

To ask about the manner or method, "kuidas" is appropriate.

Example 6:

Standard Estonian Pronunciation English
Kuidas sul läheb? kui-das sul lä-heb? How are you?
Kuidas seda teha? kui-das se-da te-ha? How to do this?

Using "Kui palju" (How much/many)[edit | edit source]

Finally, for questions about quantity, "kui palju" is used.

Example 7:

Standard Estonian Pronunciation English
Kui palju see maksab? kui pal-dju se mak-sab? How much does this cost?
Kui palju inimesi on? kui pal-dju i-ni-me-si on? How many people are there?

Question Formation with Verb Placement[edit | edit source]

In Estonian, the placement of verbs can change when forming questions. Here's a quick overview:

1. Subject-Verb-Object (SVO): The standard structure for statements.

  • Example: "Sa näed mind." (You see me.)

2. Question Formation: The question word often comes first, followed by the verb and then the subject.

  • Example: "Kus sa oled?" (Where are you?)

This inversion is key to clearly indicating a question in Estonian.

Practice Exercises[edit | edit source]

Now that you have a solid understanding of question words and formation, let’s put your knowledge to the test with some exercises!

Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks[edit | edit source]

Complete the questions using the appropriate question word:

1. ___ see on? (What)

2. ___ sa tuled? (When)

3. ___ nad on? (Who)

4. ___ see maksab? (How much)

5. ___ sa oled? (Where)

Solutions:

1. Mis see on?

2. Millal sa tuled?

3. Kes nad on?

4. Kui palju see maksab?

5. Kus sa oled?

Exercise 2: Identify the Question Words[edit | edit source]

Read the questions and identify the question words used:

1. Miks sa naerad?

2. Kuidas sul läheb?

3. Mis see on?

4. Kus nad on?

5. Millal see algab?

Solutions:

1. Miks (Why)

2. Kuidas (How)

3. Mis (What)

4. Kus (Where)

5. Millal (When)

Exercise 3: Create Your Own Questions[edit | edit source]

Using the given question words, write your own questions:

1. Kes: ______________

2. Mis: ______________

3. Kus: ______________

4. Millal: ______________

5. Miks: ______________

Solutions will vary based on student responses.

Exercise 4: Transform Statements into Questions[edit | edit source]

Transform the following statements into questions:

1. Sa näed mind. (You see me.)

2. Nad tulevad homme. (They are coming tomorrow.)

3. Ta on arst. (He/She is a doctor.)

4. Me sööme õuna. (We are eating an apple.)

5. See on ilus. (This is beautiful.)

Solutions:

1. Kas sa näed mind? (Do you see me?)

2. Kas nad tulevad homme? (Are they coming tomorrow?)

3. Kes on arst? (Who is the doctor?)

4. Mis me sööme? (What are we eating?)

5. Miks see on ilus? (Why is this beautiful?)

Exercise 5: Match the Questions to Their Meanings[edit | edit source]

Match the Estonian questions to their English translations:

| Estonian Question | English Translation |

|------------------|---------------------|

| 1. Miks sa naerad? | A. Where are you? |

| 2. Kuidas sul läheb? | B. What is this? |

| 3. Mis see on? | C. How are you? |

| 4. Kus sa oled? | D. Why are you laughing? |

Solutions:

1 - D

2 - C

3 - B

4 - A

Exercise 6: Choose the Correct Question Word[edit | edit source]

Select the appropriate question word for each sentence:

1. ___ sa teed? (What / Who)

2. ___ see on? (Where / What)

3. ___ nad tulevad? (When / Why)

4. ___ see on oluline? (How / Why)

5. ___ palju inimesi on? (How much / Where)

Solutions:

1. Mis sa teed?

2. Mis see on?

3. Millal nad tulevad?

4. Miks see on oluline?

5. Kui palju inimesi on?

Exercise 7: Ask Follow-Up Questions[edit | edit source]

Based on the answers provided, ask follow-up questions:

1. A: "Ma olen Eestis." (I am in Estonia.)

Q: ___?

2. A: "Ta on õpetaja." (He/She is a teacher.)

Q: ___?

3. A: "Me tuleme homme." (We are coming tomorrow.)

Q: ___?

Solutions will vary based on student responses.

Exercise 8: True or False[edit | edit source]

Determine whether the following statements are true or false based on your understanding of question words:

1. "Kus" is used to ask about time. (True / False)

2. "Miks" means "what." (True / False)

3. "Kuidas" is used to inquire about a person's feelings. (True / False)

4. "Kui palju" is for asking about quantity. (True / False)

5. "Kes" is used to ask about objects. (True / False)

Solutions:

1. False

2. False

3. True

4. True

5. False

Exercise 9: Construct a Dialogue[edit | edit source]

Create a short dialogue using at least 5 questions with different question words. Consider a scenario like meeting someone new or asking for directions.

Solutions will vary based on student responses.

Exercise 10: Role Play[edit | edit source]

Pair up with a classmate and practice asking and answering questions using the question words learned in this lesson. Switch roles after a few minutes.

Solutions will vary based on student responses.

Conclusion[edit | edit source]

Congratulations on completing this lesson on question words and formation in Standard Estonian! You’re now equipped with the tools to ask questions confidently and engage in conversations. Remember, practice is key to mastering any language, so keep asking questions and exploring the beauty of Estonian!

Table of Contents - Standard Estonian Course - 0 to A1[edit source]


Introduction to Estonian


Greetings and Introductions


Nouns and Pronouns


Numbers and Time


Verbs and Tenses


Daily Activities


Adjectives and Adverbs


Food and Dining


Estonian Traditions


Travel and Transportation


Prepositions and Conjunctions


At Home and Work


Estonian History


Negation and Questions


Other Lessons[edit | edit source]



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