kello — meaning in English: clock

Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for clock

voimavara

kello

suu

veli

ravintola

Skip this question

🎓

Learn Finnish for free

Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.

Start learning →

Already have an account? Log in

neutral very common

Usage

Native Finnish speakers frequently use the word 'kello' when discussing time, whether in casual conversations about daily schedules or in formal contexts like meetings. For instance, you might hear someone say, 'Mikä kello on?' ('What time is it?') when checking the time with friends or in a classroom setting.

Synonyms & nuances

'Kello' generally refers to a clock or watch, while 'aika' means 'time.' You would use 'kello' when specifying the device that shows the time, whereas 'aika' encompasses broader concepts of time, such as duration or timing of events.

Culture

'Kello' originates from the Old Norse word 'kella,' which means 'bell,' reflecting the historical significance of bells in marking time. In Finnish culture, being punctual is highly valued, making the concept of 'kello' not just a measure of time but also an important aspect of social etiquette.

FAQ

Q.What is the correct way to ask for the time in Finnish?

You can ask, 'Mikä kello on?' which directly translates to 'What time is it?' This is a polite and common way to inquire about the current time.

Q.How do you say 'It's five o'clock' in Finnish?

'It's five o'clock' translates to 'Kello on viisi.' This phrase is useful when you want to inform someone of the exact time.

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

One common mistake is confusing 'kello' with 'aika.' Remember, 'kello' specifically refers to the clock or watch, while 'aika' refers to the broader concept of time.

Learn finnish with Maspeak →

Finnish Vocabulary