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tärkeä — meaning in English: important

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tärkeä
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neutral common
Usage
Native Finnish speakers often use 'tärkeä' in both personal and professional settings. For instance, you might hear it during a business meeting when discussing key priorities or when talking to a friend about an important decision in their life.
Synonyms & nuances
'Tärkeä' is quite similar to 'merkittävä', which means significant, but 'tärkeä' has a more personal connotation. You would choose 'tärkeä' when discussing matters that resonate deeply with someone, while 'merkittävä' might be reserved for more formal contexts or when referring to events or achievements.
Culture
The word 'tärkeä' derives from the Old Finnish word 'tärkä', which means burden or load, highlighting its significance in conveying importance. In Finnish culture, emphasizing what is 'tärkeä' often reflects a person's values, as the Finns tend to prioritize honesty and direct communication about what truly matters in life.
FAQ
Q.How do you pronounce 'tärkeä' in Finnish?
'Tärkeä' is pronounced as 'tar-kay-ah'. The 'ä' is pronounced like the 'a' in 'cat', and the emphasis is typically on the first syllable.
Q.Can 'tärkeä' be used in all situations?
Yes, 'tärkeä' is a versatile word that fits in most contexts, whether discussing personal relationships, work, or general importance. However, for formal writing, you might opt for synonyms like 'merkittävä'.
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'tärkeä'?
A common mistake is using 'tärkeä' too loosely. Ensure that the context truly reflects importance; otherwise, more specific terms might be more appropriate to convey your intended meaning.
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Finnish Vocabulary