Breakdown of Rekkojen viivästykset ovat iso ongelma.
olla
to be
iso
big
ongelma
problem
rekka
truck (semi-trailer)
viivästys
delay
Questions & Answers about Rekkojen viivästykset ovat iso ongelma.
Why is 'iso ongelma' in the singular when the subject ('viivästykset') is plural?
In Finnish, when a plural subject collectively forms a single entity or shared phenomenon, the subject complement can remain in the nominative singular. All the delays taken together constitute one 'big problem'. If you used the plural isoja ongelmia, it would imply that each individual delay is its own separate big problem.
Since this lesson is about 'johtuen', how would I say 'Due to the trucks' delays, there is a big problem'?
You would put the phrase 'the trucks' delays' in the elative case plural (rekkojen viivästyksistä) and add johtuen. For example: Rekkojen viivästyksistä johtuen meillä on iso ongelma (Due to the trucks' delays, we have a big problem).
How is the noun 'viivästys' (delay) formed?
It is derived from the verb viivästyä (to be delayed, to fall behind schedule). The suffix -s or -ys is frequently used in Finnish to turn a verb into a noun that describes the concrete result of that action.
Why does 'rekkojen' keep the strong grade ('kk') when the singular genitive 'rekan' has the weak grade ('k')?
The genitive plural is built on the strong grade plural stem. Unlike the singular genitive ending -n which closes the syllable and triggers the weak grade (re-kan), the plural genitive ending -jen leaves the preceding syllable open (rek-ko-jen). Because that syllable is open, the strong double kk from rekka is preserved.
Learn Rekkojen viivästykset ovat iso ongelma and more in Finnish
All course content and exercises are completely free — no paywalls, no trial periods, no signup needed.
- ✓ Practice with interactive exercises
- ✓ Track your progress with spaced repetition
- ✓Learn at your own pace — completely free