vähän — meaning in English: little

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Guess the translation for little

seitsämän

kaivata

muistutus

vähän

haave

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informal very common

Usage

Native speakers often use 'vähän' in casual conversations to express a small quantity or degree. For example, one might say, 'Minulla on vähän aikaa,' which means 'I have a little time,' when discussing busy schedules with friends or family.

Synonyms & nuances

'Vähän' is often compared to 'pieni,' which means 'small.' While 'pieni' specifically refers to size, 'vähän' is more about quantity or degree, making it more appropriate in contexts involving amounts, such as food or time.

Culture

'Vähän' is derived from the Old Norse word 'vahn', which carried a similar meaning. In Finnish culture, where minimalism and simplicity are appreciated, using 'vähän' often reflects a humble, modest approach to expressing need or desire.

FAQ

Q.What does 'vähän' mean in English?

'Vähän' translates to 'little' or 'a little' in English, used to indicate a small quantity or degree.

Q.How do you use 'vähän' in a sentence?

'Vähän' can be used in various contexts, such as 'Hän puhuu vähän suomea,' meaning 'He speaks a little Finnish.' It's a versatile word for expressing modest amounts.

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'vähän'?

A common mistake is using 'vähän' when a more specific quantity is needed. For example, instead of saying 'vähän vettä' (a little water), it might be better to specify the amount, like 'kaksi lasillista vettä' (two glasses of water) for clarity.

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Finnish Vocabulary