Learn Hardcore Finnish: Voimme keskustella pidempään, mutta minun täytyy vastata tähän viestiin ensin. - We can discuss for longer, but I need to answer this message first.

In Finnish, when using a modal verb like “voida” (meaning “can” or “to be able to”), the main verb is kept in its basic, infinitive form. In this sentence, “voimme” (we can) is paired with “keskustella” (to talk), so the structure “voimme keskustella” correctly means “we can talk.”

What does the adverb “pidempään” mean, and how is it formed?

“Pidempään” is formed from the adjective “pitkä” (long) and is used here to indicate an extended period—essentially meaning “longer” or “for a longer time.” The ending “-pään” turns the adjective into an adverbial form suitable for modifying the verb “keskustella,” thus conveying the idea of a prolonged conversation.

How does the expression “minun täytyy” convey obligation in Finnish?

“Täytyy” is an impersonal modal verb that expresses necessity or an obligation, similar to “have to” in English. Because it doesn’t agree in person like regular verbs, a possessive pronoun is used to indicate who must act. Here, “minun” (my) is added to specify that the speaker has the obligation, so “minun täytyy” means “I have to.”

Why is “vastata” also in the infinitive form, and what does the full phrase “vastata tähän viestiin” express?

When using the modal verb “täytyy” to express necessity, the subsequent main verb “vastata” remains in its infinitive form. The phrase “vastata tähän viestiin” translates as “to answer (or reply to) this message.” “Tähän viestiin” uses a directional form—the demonstrative “tähän” with “viestiin”—to indicate exactly what is being replied to.

What is the function of the adverb “ensin” at the end of the sentence?

“Ensisijaisesti” is shortened to “ensin,” which means “first” or “firstly.” Its placement at the end of the sentence emphasizes that the action of replying to the message should occur before any extended conversation. This word order is common in Finnish, where adverbs often appear at the end to clarify the sequence of events.

What role does the conjunction “mutta” play in the sentence?

“Mutta” is a coordinating conjunction meaning “but.” It connects the two parts of the sentence—“Voimme keskustella pidempään” (We can talk for longer) and “minun täytyy vastata tähän viestiin ensin” (I have to reply to this message first). The conjunction sets up a contrast between the possibility of continuing the conversation and the necessity of replying to the message immediately.