parhaat toivotukset
The Finnish phrase for "best wishes" is parhaat toivotukset.
This phrase is used to conclude a message when you want to express good intentions for someone's future, such as for a birthday, a wedding or a new job.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the adjective parhaat (best) and the noun toivotukset (wishes).
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
parhaat toivotukset is a formal phrase. It is most commonly used in written correspondence, such as cards, letters or professional emails.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word parhaat is the plural nominative form of the superlative adjective paras (best), which matches the plural noun toivotukset.
Did you know?
- If you were writing to someone very close, like a sibling or a best friend, using the formal parhaat toivotukset might actually feel cold or overly distant.
- The word toivotukset shares a root with toivo, which means 'hope'. In Finnish, wishing someone well is linguistically tied to the act of hoping for a positive outcome.
- Unlike English, where 'best wishes' can be used almost anywhere, using parhaat toivotukset in a spoken conversation can sound like you are reading from a scripted speech.
Examples in context
- Parhainta tulevaisuuteen!All the best for the future!
- Toivon sinulle menestystä tulevissa projekteissasiI wish you success in your future projects
- Parhainta sinulleAll the best for you
- Parhaat toivotukset uuteen työhön.Best wishes for the new job.
Example conversation
Mikko is giving a farewell card to Anna.
- MikkoTässä on pieni lahja ja kortti sinulle.Here is a small gift and a card for you.
- AnnaKiitos paljon, Mikko! Mitä kortissa lukee?Thank you very much, Mikko! What does the card say?
- MikkoSiinä lukee vain parhaat toivotukset jatkoon.It just says best wishes for the future.
- AnnaSe on todella sööriä, kiitos!That is really sweet, thank you!
