Adjectives play a crucial role in any language—they add color, specificity, and detail to our descriptions. In Estonian, adjectives typically precede the nouns they modify and agree with the noun in case and number. Understanding how to use adjectives properly will enhance your ability to describe things effectively in Estonian. Here are some common adjectives you might use.

Ilus – Beautiful
This adjective is used to describe something that is pleasing to the senses or mind aesthetically.
Tal on ilus naeratus.

Vana – Old
“Vana” describes something that has existed for a long time. It can refer to age or signify something that is not new.
See on väga vana maja.

Uus – New
Opposite of “vana,” “uus” is used to describe something that has not been previously owned or is recent.
Mul on uus telefon.

Hea – Good
“Hea” is a general adjective of approval or quality. It can be used to express merit or beneficial qualities.
See film on väga hea.

Halb – Bad
In contrast to “hea,” “halb” is an adjective conveying poor quality or negative characteristics.
Sellel restoranil on halb maine.

Suur – Big/Large
Use “suur” to describe the large size or extent of something.
Neil on suur aed.

Väike – Small/Little
A descriptor for objects, animals, or anything that is of less than average size.
Tal on väike koer.

Kuum – Hot
Refers to a high degree of heat, can be used for weather, food, or temperature in general.
Täna on väga kuum ilm.

Külm – Cold
Used to describe low temperatures, it can refer to the weather, objects, or the sense of touch.
Jää on külm.

Kõrge – High/Tall
This adjective can describe physical height or elevation.
Mägi on kõrge.

Madal – Low/Short
Used when referring to something that is not high or tall, “madal” can also be used to describe depth.
Laual on madal kauss.

Pikk – Long
Describes the greater than average duration or extent in space.
See on pikk lugu.

Lühike – Short
“Lühike” refers to small length or duration.
Film oli üllatavalt lühike.

Rõõmus – Happy/Joyful
Denotes a positive emotional state.
Lapsed on väga rõõmsad.

Kurb – Sad
Used to express an unhappy state or mood.
Miks sa oled nii kurb?

Raske – Heavy/Difficult
Describes an object with a lot of weight or a task that is challenging.
See kast on liiga raske.

Kerge – Light/Easy
The opposite of “raske,” “kerge” can mean not heavy or not difficult.
Selle probleemi lahendus on kerge.

When using these adjectives, it’s essential to remember that Estonian has 14 cases, and adjectives must agree with the number and case of the nouns they modify. As you continue to expand your vocabulary, practicing sentences with various adjectives will ensure that you are well-prepared to communicate detailed descriptions in Estonian.