Understanding Impersonal Sentences in Finnish Grammar

Finnish grammar provides a unique way of conveying impersonal expressions through the construction of impersonal sentences. In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of impersonal sentences in Finnish grammar, their formation, and usage in various contexts.

Formation of Impersonal Sentences

Impersonal sentences in Finnish grammar are formed using two primary means: passive verb forms and impersonal verb constructions.

1. Passive Verb Forms

In Finnish, the passive verb form is used to convey actions without specifying the person carrying them out. The passive form of a verb in Finnish typically ends in “-tään”, “-tAan”, or “-dAAn”, such as “puhutaan” (which means “one speaks,” “people speak,” or simply, “is spoken”).

Examples of passive verb forms in impersonal sentences:

• Täällä tanssitaan (People dance here)
• Kirjoja luetaan (Books are read)</

2. Impersonal Verb Constructions

Impersonal verb constructions rely on impersonal pronouns, such as “on” or “itä” (which translates to “it seems”), to form impersonal sentences. This approach is useful when describing the weather, necessity, general emotions, or sensory information.

Examples of impersonal verb constructions in impersonal sentences:

• On kylmä (It is cold)
• On mentävä (It is necessary to go)

Types of Impersonal Sentences

Impersonal sentences in Finnish grammar can be divided into various categories, each serving a distinct purpose.

Weather Expressions

Impersonal sentences are frequently used in Finnish to describe weather conditions. In such expressions, the impersonal verb “olla” (to be) is employed.

Examples of impersonal sentences describing weather:

• On aurinkoista (It is sunny)
• On pilvistä (It is cloudy)

Necessity Expressions

Impersonal sentences can also express a sense of obligation, necessity, or requirement. Here, the impersonal pronoun “on” is combined with an infinitive verb form.

Examples of impersonal necessity expressions:

• On opiskeltava ahkerasti (One must study diligently)
• On tehtävä päätös (One must make a decision)

General Emotions and Sensations

Impersonal sentences provide an effective means for describing general emotions and sensory experiences.

Examples of impersonal sentences expressing emotions or sensations:

• On hauskaa (It is fun)
• Tuntuu hyvältä (It feels good)

Existential Sentences

Existential impersonal sentences are utilized when highlighting the presence or absence of something. The impersonal verb “olla” (to be) is key in these expressions.

Examples of existential impersonal sentences:

• On rahaa (There is money)
• Ei ole sateenvarjoa (There is no umbrella)

Conclusion

Impersonal sentences are crucial for conveying various types of information in Finnish grammar. By using passive verb forms and impersonal verb constructions, speakers can effectively articulate weather conditions, necessity, general emotions, sensory information, and the existence or absence of objects or concepts. Mastering impersonal sentences provides a powerful tool for enhancing one’s fluency and expression in the Finnish language.