Learning a new language involves not just mastering its grammar and vocabulary but also understanding how to describe common concepts, such as directions and places. Estonian, with its unique vocabulary, is no exception. Discovering how to express direction and place words in Estonian will enhance your communication skills if you ever find yourself navigating the streets of Tallinn or attempting to find a place in a small Estonian village. Here’s a guide to some basic direction and place words in Estonian that you might find useful.

Paremal
Means “on the right.” This word is essential for giving or receiving directions.
Kas pood on paremal või vasakul?

Vasakul
Means “on the left.” Use this word when you need to indicate a location in relation to something.
Järgmine oma peatus on vasakul.

Üleval
Refers to “upstairs” or “above.” This word is helpful when describing the location of something in multi-level buildings.
Raamatud on üleval, teisel korrusel.

All
Means “downstairs” or “below.” It can indicate a lower position in a given space.
Parkla on all, keldrikorrusel.

Ees
Translates to “in front.” You’ll need this word when you describe something located ahead of your current position.
Koer istub ees, ukselävel.

Taga
Means “behind.” Use it when referring to something located at the back of another object or place.
Vaata, kes on taga!

Vahel
Means “between.” This word comes in handy when you’re giving directions involving intermediate points.
Parkla asub postkontori ja supermarketi vahel.

Lähedal
Translates to “near” or “close.” Use it when something is a short distance away from a point of reference.
Kas on siin mõni kohvik lähedal?

Kaugel
Means “far.” This word helps to express that something is a long distance away.
See kool asub väga kaugel.

Sisse
Means “into.” Use it when describing movement going inside or into something.
Lähme sisse, väljas on külm.

Välja
Means “out of.” It indicates a movement from inside to the outside.
Tulge välja ja nautige päikesepaistet!

Ümber
Means “around.” This word describes movement or location circling or surrounding something.
Jookseme ümber järve iga hommik.

Suund
Translates to “direction.” It’s a general term that can refer to any orientation.
Millises suunas on muuseum?

Pööra
Means “turn.” This verb is crucial for giving or understanding directions that involve a change of direction.
Pööra järgmisest ristmikust vasakule.

Edasi
Means “forward” or “straight ahead.” Use this to indicate a direction that is directly in front of someone.
Liigu edasi mööda seda teed viis minutit.

Tagasi
Means “back” or “backward.” It can refer to the action of returning to a previous location.
Mine tagasi, sa läksid valesti.

By understanding and using these Estonian direction and place words, you’ll be better equipped to follow and give directions, ensuring a smoother experience when visiting or living in Estonia. Learning to accurately describe locations and directions is a fundamental aspect of mastering any language, and Estonian is no exception. With practice, you’ll find these words becoming a natural part of your vocabulary. Head õnne (good luck) on your language learning journey!