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10 of the funniest Finnish slang phrases you've probably never heard of
10 of the funniest Finnish slang phrases you've probably never heard of
Erin McDowellMar 20, 2024, 03:32 IST
Red and yellow houses on a hill in Porvoo in Finland.Finn stock/Shutterstock
Finnish people use slang words and phrases which, when translated, might confuse Americans.
You might describe someone with a sweet tooth as a "pullahiiri," which translates to a "bun mouse."
Finland is consistently ranked as the world's happiest country, thanks to factors including a great work-life balance and internationally renowned healthcare.
But Americans moving to Finland might experience a culture shock when it comes to the Finnish language — the country has its own vernacular and phrases, and the direct translations might confuse non-Finnish people.
Here are 10 Finnish slang phrases you've probably never heard of.
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"Juosta pää kolmantena jalkana" has a similar meaning to "running like a chicken with its head cut off."
Kids wearing backpacks running into a school.Johner Images/Getty Images
The phrase "Olla kaikki muumit laaksossa" references the Finnish "Moomin" children's book series.
Copies of Moomin books titled Tales From Moominvalley by Tove Jansson are displayed.John Keeble/Getty Images
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"Olla kuin puusta pudonnut" literally means to seem or be like falling out of tree. In other words, it means to seem out of sorts.
Businesswoman using technology in office.JGI/Tom Grill/Getty Images
A "pullahiiri" is a "bun mouse," or someone who has a sweet tooth.
Cinnamon buns.Aly Weisman/Business Insider
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To "heittää lusikka nurkkaan," or "throw the spoon in the corner," means to die.
Wood spoons on marble background.ATU Images/Getty Images
Instead of saying "cheese" when Finns take a photo together, they say "muikku," a type of fish.
Muikku fish.manuel cazzaniga/Getty Images
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Liars hold "ketunhäntä kainalossa," or the fox's tail in their armpits.
Red fox cub running.James Warwick/Getty Images
"Rohkea rokan syö" has the same meaning as "fortune favors the bold."