Interesting words
A collection of Finnish words that don’t have a 1:1 English translation and often require an explanation.
| Finnish | English |
|---|---|
| Finnish Aasinsilta | English A barely related and sometimes awkward transition from one topic to another that often has very little to do with the current topic or argument. |
| Finnish Avanto | English A hole in the ice where someone can swim or dip into. Sometimes done between sauna sessions in winter. |
| Finnish Eräjorma | English A person who loves the outdoors, is knowledgeable about nature and is typically skilled in survival. |
| Finnish Juoksentelisinkohan | English To wonder if you should run around aimlessly. |
| Finnish Kaamos | English The phenomenon where the night lasts for 24 hours within the northernmost part of Finland that is within the arctic circle, also known as polar night. |
| Finnish Kalsarikännit | English The act of of getting drunk at home alone, typically in underpants, with no intention of going out. |
| Finnish Kissanristiäiset | English A party or event that you feel is unnecesary but you are somewhat forced to attend. |
| Finnish Kyykkyviini | English Wines that are often the cheapest or least of quality that are located on the lowest shelf and require crouching to acquire. |
| Finnish Landespede | English A person who was born or raised in the country side; a person not from the city. |
| Finnish Löyly | English The act of throwing water on sauna’s stove and the heat, humidity and temperature in the sauna as a result of the steam. |
| Finnish Motti | English Military slang for a totally encircled enemy unit. The tactic of encircling is Motitus. |
| Finnish Myötähäpeä | English Second-hand shame or compassion for someone making a fool of themselves. |
| Finnish Riuku | English Usually a tree branch used to lean on or against for support while relieving one’s self. |
| Finnish Routa | English The frozen top layer of earth or soil caused by cold weather during winter with ruotavaurio occasionally being used for roads or paths that have been damaged by such conditions. |
| Finnish Ruoto | English Ruoto, or kalanruoto, is the term for the small bones of a fish commonly known as fishbone. |
| Finnish Ruska | English The process of leaves turning from green changing to various colours in autumn. |
| Finnish Ruuhkavuodet | English How a parent with young children may feel while trying to juggle responsibilities along with their career and hobbies. |
| Finnish Sisu | English Stoic determination, perserverance, bravery, resilience or hardiness. |