Language/Standard-estonian/Grammar/Question-words-and-interrogative-sentences
As a beginner learning Estonian, it's important to understand how to form questions and use question words correctly. In this lesson, we will focus on interrogative sentences and the role of question words in Estonian grammar.
Interrogative sentences
In Estonian, interrogative sentences are formed by changing the word order of a declarative sentence, such that the verb appears before the subject. For example, the declarative sentence "Ma armastan Eestit." (I love Estonia.) becomes the interrogative sentence "Armastan ma Eestit?" (Do I love Estonia?). The question particle "?“ (kas) is commonly used to signify a question, but it can be omitted and often is in casual conversation.
In addition to word order, intonation is also important in indicating that a sentence is a question. Estonian questions typically end with a rising tone.
Question words
Question words (küsisõnad) are an essential part of forming questions in Estonian. They help to specify the information being requested. Here are some common question words and their usage:
| Question word | Pronunciation | English translation |
|---|---|---|
| Mis? | [mis] | What? |
| Kes? | [kes] | Who? |
| Kus? | [kus] | Where? |
| Millal? | [millal] | When? |
| Miks? | [miks] | Why? |
| Kuidas? | [kui-das] | How? |
Example of usage:
- Mis on sinu nimi? (What is your name?)
- Kes on see mees? (Who is that man?)
- Kus sa elad? (Where do you live?)
- Millal sa saabud? (When will you arrive?)
- Miks sa nutad? (Why are you crying?)
- Kuidas su päev möödus? (How was your day?)
Practice
Let's practice forming interrogative sentences with question words. Translate the following sentences into Estonian:
- What is your favourite hobby?
- Who is coming to the party?
- Where did you buy that shirt?
- When are you leaving for your trip?
- Why did the dog bark?
- How did you learn Estonian?
Answers:
- Mis on su lemmikhobi?
- Kes tuleb peole?
- Kus sa seda särki ostsid?
- Millal sa oma reisile lähed?
- Miks koer haugatas?
- Kuidas sa õppisid eesti keelt?
Remember to pay attention to the correct word order and intonation when forming the questions!
That's it for this lesson on question words and interrogative sentences in Estonian grammar. With these tools under your belt, you'll be able to ask questions and gather information in no time!