In recent years, Estonia has become known for its vibrant tech scene, innovative startups, and a unique culture that blends tradition and modernity. As a result, the Estonian language has evolved, incorporating a range of new terms that reflect the interests and lifestyles of the millennial generation. If you’re learning Estonian or planning to visit the country, getting to grips with these terms can enhance your understanding and help you connect with locals on a deeper level. Below, we delve into the top 10 Estonian millennial terms you need to know.
One of the most commonly used terms among Estonian millennials is “möll.” This versatile word can mean both “party” and “chaos,” depending on the context. For example, if someone says, “Oli kõva möll eile,” they could mean “There was a great party last night” or “There was a lot of chaos last night.” The dual meaning of this term captures the unpredictable and dynamic nature of millennial life in Estonia.
Borrowed from English, “chilla” is the Estonian equivalent of “to chill” or “to relax.” It’s commonly used among young people to describe taking it easy or hanging out with friends. You might hear someone say, “Lähme chilla,” which translates to “Let’s go chill.” This term reflects the laid-back attitude that many Estonian millennials adopt in their free time.
In the age of social media, it’s no surprise that platforms like Instagram have their own slang terms. “Instakas” is a colloquial way to refer to Instagram in Estonian. If someone asks, “Kas sa nägid seda Instakas?” they are asking, “Did you see that on Instagram?” This term is particularly popular among millennials who use social media to stay connected and share their lives with others.
Originally meaning “to tick” as in a clock, “tiksuma” has evolved to mean “to hang out” or “to spend time aimlessly.” It’s a term that captures the essence of leisurely activities without a specific purpose. For instance, “Lähme linna tiksuma” translates to “Let’s go hang out in the city.” This term is perfect for describing those relaxed, unplanned moments that are a staple of millennial life.
While “keemia” traditionally means “chemistry” in a scientific sense, it has taken on a new meaning among millennials to describe attraction or a connection between people. If someone says, “Meil on hea keemia,” they mean “We have good chemistry.” This term is often used in the context of romantic relationships but can also apply to friendships and other connections.
The term “ükskõik” translates to “whatever” or “indifferent,” and it’s a common way for Estonian millennials to express a lack of preference or concern. For example, if someone asks, “Kuhu me läheme?” (Where are we going?), a typical response might be “Ükskõik,” indicating that the person doesn’t mind where they go. This term reflects a laid-back, go-with-the-flow attitude that is prevalent among young people in Estonia.
Derived from the word “rubbish” or “junk,” “rämpstoit” specifically means “junk food.” However, among millennials, the abbreviated form “rämp” is commonly used to refer to anything considered low-quality or undesirable. You might hear someone say, “See on täitsa rämp,” meaning “This is complete junk.” This term is often used to describe food, but can also apply to other aspects of life.
With the rise of remote work, the term “digitaalne nomad” has gained popularity. It refers to individuals who use digital technology to earn a living and conduct their life in a nomadic manner. If you hear someone say, “Ma olen digitaalne nomad,” they are telling you, “I am a digital nomad.” This term is particularly relevant in Estonia, which is known for its e-residency program and digital innovation.
Much like “Instakas,” “feiss” is a shortened form of Facebook. This term is widely used among millennials who are active on social media. If someone asks, “Kas sa oled Feissis?” they are asking, “Are you on Facebook?” Given the platform’s popularity, this term is an essential part of the millennial lexicon.
Lastly, the globally recognized acronym “YOLO” (You Only Live Once) has made its way into the Estonian language, maintaining the same meaning. It’s often used to justify spontaneous or risky behavior. For example, “Ma lähen reisima, YOLO” means “I’m going traveling, YOLO.” This term encapsulates the adventurous spirit and desire for new experiences that characterize the millennial generation.
Understanding these top 10 Estonian millennial terms can offer valuable insights into the culture and lifestyle of young people in Estonia. Whether you’re learning the language, planning a trip, or simply interested in modern Estonian culture, these terms will help you navigate conversations and connect with locals more effectively. From expressing a laid-back attitude with “chilla” to discussing your latest social media posts on “Instakas,” incorporating these terms into your vocabulary will make your interactions more authentic and relatable.
