I'm learning suomi

kielet — meaning in English: languages

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

Guess the translation for languages
kolme
kuitenkin
kielet
lento
kiitos
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 common
Usage
Native speakers use the word 'kielet' when discussing various forms of communication, especially in educational settings or cultural discussions. For instance, a Finnish teacher might say, 'Opetamme useita kielet koulussa,' meaning 'We teach several languages in school.' Additionally, friends might talk about their favorite 'kielet' while enjoying a coffee together at a café, emphasizing the social aspect of language learning.
Synonyms & nuances
'Kielet' is often used in a broader sense than the word 'kieli,' which refers to a specific language. While 'kieli' would be appropriate when talking about Finnish or Swedish individually, 'kielet' captures the idea of multiple languages, making it essential in discussions about multilingualism or language education.
Culture
'Kielet' derives from the Finnish root 'kieli,' which means 'tongue' and also refers to 'language.' This reflects the linguistic diversity in Finland, where multiple languages coexist, including Finnish, Swedish, and Sámi languages. The word has evolved to encompass not just the concept of language but also the rich cultural identities associated with each tongue.
FAQ
Q.What does 'kielet' mean in English?
'Kielet' translates to 'languages' in English, referring to multiple forms of communication used by different groups of people.
Q.How do you use 'kielet' in a sentence?
You can use 'kielet' in sentences like, 'Hän puhuu monia kielet,' which means 'He speaks many languages.' This highlights the multilingual capabilities of a person.
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'kielet'?
'Kielet' is often confused with 'kieli.' Remember that 'kielet' is plural, so it should be used when referring to more than one language.
Learn finnish with Maspeak →
Finnish Vocabulary