Estonian, a Uralic language spoken primarily in Estonia, has a rich and complex verb system. To understand and communicate effectively in Estonian, it’s crucial to have a grasp of its verbs. Let’s delve into this important part of the Estonian language.

Olema, meaning “to be,” is one of the most fundamental verbs in Estonian. It is an irregular verb and is essential for constructing sentences.
Tema on õpetaja. – He is a teacher.

Tegema translates to “to do” or “to make” in English. This verb is regularly used in everyday conversation and is crucial for discussing activities and intentions.
Ma teen õhtusööki. – I am making dinner.

Mine means “to go” and is another verb that forms the foundation of many conversations, referring to movement or travel.
Me lähme kinno. – We are going to the cinema.

Nägema is the Estonian verb for “to see.” It’s often utilized when expressing the ability to perceive something visually.
Kas sa näed seda lindu? – Do you see that bird?

Kuulma means “to hear” and is used to indicate the action of perceiving sound.
Ma kuulen muusikat. – I hear music.

Rääkima translates to “to talk” or “to speak.” This verb is essential for any conversation about language or communication.
Räägime eesti keeles. – Let’s speak in Estonian.

Sööma means “to eat.” When discussing meals or expressing hunger, this verb comes into play.
Me sööme hommikusööki. – We are eating breakfast.

Jooksma translates to “to run,” often related to physical exercise or quick movement.
Koer jookseb pargis. – The dog is running in the park.

Tulema means “to come.” This verb is frequently used to talk about arrival or invitation.
Kas sa tuled minuga kaasa? – Will you come with me?

Ööbima translates to “to stay overnight” or “to sleepover.” It is specific to staying somewhere for the night.
Kas me ööbime hotellis? – Are we staying in a hotel?

Armastama means “to love.” It is a powerful verb used to express deep affection or preference.
Ma armastan sind. – I love you.

Viima translates to “to take” in the sense of taking something somewhere.
Viin raamatu raamatukokku tagasi. – I am taking the book back to the library.

One must not only know these verbs but also understand how to conjugate them properly to match the subject, tense, and mood. Estonian verbs are inflected for three persons (first, second, third) and two numbers (singular, plural). Understanding Estonian verbs also requires familiarization with the different tenses—present, past (imperfect and perfect), and the conditional, among others. Additionally, verbs are modified to indicate the mood, including the indicative, imperative, and conditional moods.

By mastering these essential Estonian verbs and their uses, language learners can lay a solid foundation for constructing sentences and expressing a wide range of actions and states of being. Practice regularly with these verbs to enhance and solidify your proficiency in Estonian.

Remember, learning a language is a journey—take your time, practice consistently, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Happy learning!