Exercises on Common Estonian Noun Cases and Their Uses

Mastering the Estonian language involves understanding its unique grammatical structures, particularly the various noun cases that play a crucial role in sentence construction and meaning. Estonian, a Finno-Ugric language, features 14 noun cases, each with its specific functions and nuances. These cases not only determine the relationship between words in a sentence but also convey subtle differences in meaning that are essential for clear and accurate communication. By practicing these exercises, learners can develop a deeper comprehension of how noun cases operate, enhancing both their spoken and written Estonian. Our collection of exercises focuses on the most commonly used Estonian noun cases, such as the nominative, genitive, partitive, and allative, among others. Each exercise is designed to provide practical application and context, helping you to internalize the rules and patterns associated with each case. Whether you are a beginner looking to build a solid foundation or an advanced learner aiming to refine your skills, these exercises will support your journey toward fluency. Dive in and start exploring the intricacies of Estonian noun cases to improve your linguistic proficiency and confidence.

Exercise 1

1. Ma lähen *poodi* (where are you going?).

2. Ta töötab *koolis* (where does he work?).

3. Me läheme *randa* (where are you going to relax?).

4. Nad elavad *majas* (where do they live?).

5. Koer jooksis *parki* (where did the dog run?).

6. Raamat on *laual* (where is the book?).

7. Me jalutame *metsas* (where are you walking?).

8. Ta ostis *poest* (from where did he buy?).

9. Ma tulen *töölt* (from where are you coming?).

10. Meie lapsed mängivad *õues* (where are the children playing?).

Exercise 2

1. Ma lähen *poodi* (location where you buy food).

2. Ta andis mulle *raamatu* (object you read).

3. Me sõidame *Eestisse* (destination of travel).

4. Ta elab *Tallinnas* (capital city of Estonia).

5. Ma söön *õuna* (a type of fruit).

6. Ta tuli *koolist* (place where children study).

7. Me räägime *eestikeelt* (language spoken in Estonia).

8. Ma kirjutasin *kirja* (a written message).

9. Ta ootab *bussi* (public transportation vehicle).

10. Me läheme *kino* (place to watch movies).

Exercise 3

1. Ta elab *majas* (house in inessive case).

2. Me läheme *kooli* (school in illative case).

3. Pean ostma *leiba* (bread in partitive case).

4. Ta tuli *töölt* (work in elative case).

5. Koer jooksis *tuppa* (room in illative case).

6. Kas sa tuled *kinost* (cinema in elative case)?

7. Ma nägin *lindu* (bird in partitive case).

8. Me kohtume *pargis* (park in inessive case).

9. Ma kingin talle *raamatu* (book in singular partitive case).

10. Nad sõidavad *Eestisse* (Estonia in illative case).