Adjective Rection
In English, adjectives are followed by specific prepositions (you are capable of something, but suitable for something else). In Finnish, this relationship is handled by noun cases. When a word dictates the grammatical case of the word that follows it, it is called rection.
Adjectives Requiring the Illative Case
Adjectives expressing suitability, capability, or readiness require the illative case ("into", using endings like -Vn, -hVn, or -seen). Conceptually, Finnish visualizes your skills being directed into a task or profession.
Key adjectives in this group include sopiva (suitable), pätevä (qualified), and kykenevä (capable):
The adjective valmis (ready) also takes the illative case:
Adjectives Requiring the Elative Case
Adjectives expressing emotions, interest, or dependence require the elative case (-sta/-stä, meaning "out of"). In the Finnish mindset, enthusiasm, gratitude, or pride arises out of whatever causes it.
Key adjectives in this group include innostunut (enthusiastic), kiitollinen (grateful), and riippuvainen (dependent):
Being ylpeä (proud) also requires the elative case. When presenting your qualifications, you might express pride in your resume:
