When learning a new language, understanding how to express dates is essential for effective communication. In this guide, we will explore how to say the date in Finnish, both formally and informally. Whether you’re planning a trip to Finland or simply curious about this beautiful language, let’s dive in and explore the different ways to express dates in Finnish.
Table of Contents
1. Formal Ways to Express the Date
In formal settings, such as business or official documents, it is important to follow proper etiquette when expressing dates in Finnish. Here are some examples:
a) Using the Day, Month, and Year Format
“The date today is 14th June 2022.”
“Tänään on 14. kesäkuuta 2022.”
Note: In Finnish, the day always precedes the month.
b) Including the Full Weekday
“Today is Tuesday, 14th June 2022.”
“Tänään on tiistai, 14. kesäkuuta 2022.”
c) Using Ordinal Numbers for the Day
“The event is scheduled for the 21st of July 2022.”
“Tapahtuma on suunniteltu 21. heinäkuuta 2022.”
d) Emphasizing the Year
“The year is 1985.”
“Vuosi on 1985.”
2. Informal Ways to Express the Date
In casual conversations or informal settings, Finns often opt for a simpler way to express dates. Here are some examples:
a) Using Numeric Format
“Today is 14.6.2022.”
“Tänään on 14.6.2022.”
Note: In Finland, the dot (.) is commonly used as a separator between the day, month, and year.
b) Mentioning Only the Day and Month
“Let’s meet on 28th August.”
“Tavataan 28. elokuuta.”
c) Using Informal Terminology
“Today is the 14th.”
“Tänään on 14.”
3. Additional Tips and Examples
Here are some extra tips and examples to help you become more proficient in expressing dates in Finnish:
a) Seasons
“Spring” – kevät
“Summer” – kesä
“Autumn” – syksy
“Winter” – talvi
b) Talking About Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow
“Yesterday” – eilen
“Today” – tänään
“Tomorrow” – huomenna
c) Ordering Dates
When expressing dates, you start with the smallest unit (day) and end with the largest unit (year).
For example:
Order: day/month/year – 5/11/2021
In Finnish: 5.11.2021
However, when using a full sentence, the order changes to: day/months/word year.
For example:
“The date is 5th November 2021.”
In Finnish: “Päivämäärä on 5. marraskuuta 2021.”
Conclusion
Congratulations on reaching the end of this guide on how to say the date in Finnish! By understanding the formal and informal ways of expressing dates, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate conversations and written materials in Finnish-speaking environments. Remember to pay attention to the proper usage of words, numbers, and the order in which they are presented. With practice, you’ll develop confidence and fluency in expressing dates in Finnish. Onnea matkaan! (Good luck!)
