How to Say “Please” in Finnish

Ways to say it

Finnish uses different expressions for "please" depending on the context of the request. You can use the construction ole hyvä ja [verb] to ask someone to perform a specific action. For simple requests like ordering something, such as "Coffee, please", Finnish speakers often use kiitos, which literally means "thank you". In informal settings, you can also use voitko, meaning "could you", to make a polite request. Other related verbs that express desire or satisfaction include haluta, miellyttää, lystätä and mieliä.

What does it mean word for word?

The phrase ole hyvä literally translates to "be good".

Which one should you use?

The choice between forms depends on how many people you are addressing and the level of politeness required. ole hyvä is the singular form used for one person you are on informal terms with, while olkaa hyvä is the plural or formal version. ole kiltti is a more direct way to say "be kind" or "be nice" and is frequently used when asking someone to behave well or to do a favor.

Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?

olkaa hyvä is the polite and formal way to say please, suitable for addressing elders or groups. ole hyvä is the standard informal singular form. For informal requests, you may also use voitko.

Related words

To desire, to will, to be pleased by (verb): haluta, mieliä, lystätä.

To make happy or satisfy (verb): miellyttää.

How does it change in a sentence?

The form olkaa hyvä serves as the plural or formal imperative, used when addressing more than one person or when showing respect to a single person.

When do people say it?

While kiitos is the word for "thank you", it is culturally common to use it to express "please" when requesting items, such as when ordering food or drinks.