Grammar and Pragmatics: Changes in the Paradigm of the Estonian Imperative
Grammar and Pragmatics: Changes in the Paradigm of the Estonian Imperative

Summary/Abstract: The singular and plural 2nd person forms are central and stable in the paradigm of the Estonian imperative. The other forms are characterized by variation in use and forms, which points to certain function shifts. The shifts are caused by pragmatic and semantic factors; they have an important role in the situation structure and communicative function. The indicative form is mostly used instead of the 1st person plural imperative. Both forms, however, have their own usage area and nuances. The ku-/gu- marked the original optative form and the permissive construction with the particle las show similar developments into: 1) the third person imperative form, 2) evidential imperative, and 3) concessive. The grammaticalization of the shifts under discussion is still underway — the indicative form acting as the imperative form has not acquired the object government as yet, and the source meaning of the las-construction is still affecting its behaviour ruling out the use of the 2nd person forms.

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