Learn Hardcore Finnish: Kuitenkin pyörä voi olla hitaampi, mutta se on usein parempi valinta terveydelle. - However, the bicycle can be slower, but it is often a better choice for health.

Kuitenkin translates to "however." It is used to introduce a contrast between two ideas—in this case, acknowledging that while a bike can be slower, it has a positive aspect that makes it a better choice for health.

How is the modal verb phrase voi olla functioning in the sentence?

The phrase voi olla combines the modal voi ("can" or "may") with the infinitive olla ("to be"). This construction expresses possibility, indicating that the bike can be slower rather than stating it as an absolute fact.

How is the comparative form hitaampi formed in Finnish and what does it mean in English?

Hitaampi means "slower" and is the comparative form of hidas ("slow"). In Finnish, many adjectives form the comparative by adding the suffix -mpi, similar to the English way of adding "-er" to create comparatives.

Why is the pronoun se used in the second clause, and what does it refer to?

Se is a pronoun equivalent to "it." It refers back to pyörä ("bike"), and using it avoids repeating the noun. This is a common way to maintain cohesion and prevent redundancy in Finnish sentences.

What does terveydelle mean, and what grammatical case does it illustrate?

Terveydelle translates roughly as "for health." It is formed by taking terveys ("health") and adding the -lle ending, which indicates the allative case. This case is used to express a direction, purpose, or benefit—in this sentence, implying that the bike is a better choice when considering one's health.