Finland is a country rich in seasonal variations, and its language beautifully reflects this diversity. Learning Finnish vocabulary related to different seasons can enhance your ability to communicate and immerse in the local culture. Here is a comprehensive list of seasonal Finnish vocabulary spanning from the snowy winters to the midnight sun of summer.
Kevät – Spring
Linnut palaavat takaisin keväällä.
Spring in Finland is a time of awakening and renewal. As the snow melts and days get longer, nature revives from the long winter.
Kesä – Summer
Kesällä päivät ovat pitempiä ja lämpimämpiä.
Summer in Finland is cherished and vibrant, characterized by long days, festivals, and typically warmer weather that draws people outdoors.
Syksy – Autumn
Lehdet muuttuvat väriltään syksyllä.
Autumn is a visually stunning season when the leaves turn various shades of yellow, orange, and red. It’s a popular time for hiking and enjoying the colorful landscapes.
Talvi – Winter
Talvella lämpötila voi laskea hyvin alas.
Winter in Finland can be harsh with very low temperatures and snow-covered landscapes, but it also offers unique experiences like skiing and ice swimming.
Lumi – Snow
Lumi peittää maiseman valkoiseksi.
Snow is a significant aspect of Finnish winters, transforming the environment into a winter wonderland and influencing many seasonal activities.
Jää – Ice
Järven pinta on jäässä kylminä kuukausina.
Ice covers lakes and rivers in the cold months, becoming a platform for activities such as ice skating and ice fishing.
Pakkas – Frost
Pakkasaamuina ikkunat ovat huurteessa.
Frost occurs when the temperature drops below freezing, creating a thin layer of ice crystals on surfaces.
Aurinko – Sun
Aurinko paistaa kirkkaasti kesätaivaalla.
The sun plays a crucial role in the seasonal mood and activities, especially notable during the summer when the days are longest.
Kaamos – Polar night
Kaamoksen aikana aurinko ei nouse lainkaan.
The polar night is a period in winter above the Arctic Circle when the sun does not rise over the horizon, leading to extended darkness.
Revontulet – Northern lights
Revontulet loistavat taivaalla Lapissa.
The northern lights, or aurora borealis, are a spectacular natural light display commonly seen in the Finnish Lapland during clear winter nights.
Mökki – Cottage
Vietämme kesälomaa mökillä järven rannalla.
Cottages are a popular getaway destination for Finns, especially during the summer months for relaxation and enjoying nature.
Juhannus – Midsummer
Juhannuksena kokoonnutaan juhlimaan keskikesän juhlaa.
Midsummer is celebrated around the summer solstice with bonfires, dancing, and spending time near lakes or the sea.
Ruska – Autumn foliage
Ruska värjää maiseman punaisen ja keltaisen sävyillä.
Autumn foliage refers to the vividly colored leaves that mark the autumn season, particularly prominent in northern Finland.
Hiihto – Skiing
Hiihto on suosittu talviurheilulaji Suomessa.
Skiing is a beloved winter sport in Finland, with numerous trails and resorts dedicated to both cross-country and downhill skiing.
Uusivuosi – New Year
Uusivuosi on juhla, jolloin ihmiset toivottavat toisilleen onnea tulevalle vuodelle.
New Year’s celebrations in Finland include fireworks, special meals, and social gatherings to welcome the year ahead.
Vappu – May Day
Vappua vietetään kevään ja työn juhlana.
May Day, or Vappu, is a spring festival celebrating workers and students, featuring parades, picnics, and balloons.
By familiarizing yourself with these seasonal Finnish vocabulary words, you can deepen your understanding of Finnish culture and enhance your ability to communicate effectively throughout the year. Whether discussing the beauty of ruska or planning a trip to see the revontulet, these words will surely enrich your conversations and experiences in Finland.
