Exercises on Using Estonian Prepositions in Idiomatic Expressions

Mastering prepositions is a crucial aspect of attaining fluency in any language, and Estonian is no exception. Estonian prepositions often form the backbone of idiomatic expressions, giving the language its unique charm and precision. Unlike English, where prepositions typically precede their objects, Estonian prepositions can be postpositional, making them a challenging yet fascinating element to grasp. This exercise page is designed to help you understand and use Estonian prepositions accurately within idiomatic expressions, enhancing both your comprehension and communication skills. Estonian idiomatic expressions, much like those in other languages, often carry meanings that are not immediately obvious from the individual words. For example, phrases like "omaette" (by oneself) or "vaeva nägema" (to struggle) require a nuanced understanding of prepositions and context. By practicing these exercises, you will not only learn the literal translations but also gain insight into how Estonian speakers naturally use these expressions in daily conversation. Whether you are a beginner or looking to refine your advanced skills, these exercises will provide you with a deeper understanding of the subtleties of Estonian prepositions and idiomatic language.

Exercise 1

1. Ta elab *Tallinnas* (in the capital city of Estonia).

2. Ma õppisin eesti keelt *ülikoolis* (at a higher education institution).

3. Ta töötab *kontoris* (in a place where people do clerical work).

4. Me läheme *poodi* (to a place where you can buy things).

5. Ta tuli *välismaalt* (from abroad).

6. Ma sõidan *bussiga* (using public transportation).

7. Ta on *tööle* (at work).

8. Me kohtume *kohvikus* (in a place where you can drink coffee).

9. Ta elab *mere ääres* (near the sea).

10. Ma lähen *kodu* (going to where you live).

Exercise 2

1. Ma olen *uhke* oma töö üle (feeling of pride).

2. Ta unustas oma võtmed *lauale* panna (location where to place something).

3. Me läheme *kinno* filmi vaatama (place to watch movies).

4. Ta on väga hea *matemaatikas* (subject in school).

5. Ma usun *sõbrasse* (trust someone).

6. Me ootame *bussi* (waiting for a mode of transportation).

7. Nad sõitsid *maale* puhkama (destination for vacation).

8. Ta on *tööl* (location where someone works).

9. Me räägime *eestikeeles* (language of conversation).

10. Ta muretseb *tervise* pärast (concern about health).

Exercise 3

1. Ta läks *üle* silla (preposition for crossing something).

2. Ta saabus *koos* sõbraga (preposition for being with someone).

3. Me räägime *umbes* kolmest (preposition for approximation).

4. Nad tulid *ilma* vihmavarjuta (preposition for lack of something).

5. Ta elab *lähedal* koolile (preposition for proximity).

6. Me sõitsime *mööda* rannikut (preposition for along a path).

7. Ta viibis *kuni* hilisõhtuni (preposition for until a certain time).

8. Koer jooksis *ümber* maja (preposition for around something).

9. Ta on tööl *peale* lõunat (preposition for after a time).

10. Me rääkisime *kell* viis (preposition for a specific time).