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{{Finnish-Page-Top}}
{{Finnish-Page-Top}}
<div class="pg_page_title">[[Language/Finnish|Finnish]]  → [[Language/Finnish/Grammar|Grammar]] → [[Language/Finnish/Grammar/0-to-A1-Course|0 to A1 Course]] → Subordinate Clauses</div>
Welcome to this lesson on '''subordinate clauses''' in Finnish! Understanding subordinate clauses is essential for constructing more complex and meaningful sentences, allowing you to express your thoughts in greater detail. As you advance in your Finnish studies, you will find that these clauses are pivotal for connecting ideas and providing context, much like the glue that holds your sentences together.


<div class="pg_page_title">[[Language/Finnish|Finnish]]  → [[Language/Finnish/Grammar|Grammar]] → [[Language/Finnish/Grammar/0-to-A1-Course|0 to A1 Course]] → Conjunctions and Subordinate Clauses → Subordinate Clauses</div>
In this lesson, we will explore the following:
 
* Definition of subordinate clauses
 
* Types of subordinate clauses in Finnish
 
* How to form subordinate clauses
 
* Usage of subordinate clauses in sentences
 
* Examples to illustrate each point
 
* Exercises to practice what you've learned
 
So, let’s dive in!


__TOC__
__TOC__


As a Finnish language teacher for the past 20 years, I have noticed that one of the most challenging topics for my students is subordinate clauses. Understanding how to form and use subordinate clauses correctly is crucial for constructing sentences in Finnish.
=== What are Subordinate Clauses? ===


In this lesson of the "Complete 0 to A1 Finnish Course", we will be learning about subordinate clauses. We will cover the basics of subordinate clauses, including their structure, types, and usage. By the end of the lesson, you will have a solid understanding of how to use subordinate clauses in Finnish.
A subordinate clause is a part of a sentence that cannot stand alone as a complete thought. It adds additional information to the main clause but does not express a complete idea by itself. In Finnish, subordinate clauses are often introduced by conjunctions, similar to English.


== What Are Subordinate Clauses? ==
'''For example:'''


In Finnish, a subordinate clause (alalause) is a dependent clause that cannot stand alone as a sentence but must be connected to an independent clause. Subordinate clauses are used to provide additional information about a sentence's subject, verb, or object. For example:
* '''English:''' I will go to the store '''if it stops raining.'''


- Kun menen töihin, istun aina bussissa.
* '''Finnish:''' Menen kauppaan '''jos sade loppuu.'''
When I go to work, I always sit on the bus.


In this sentence, "kun menen töihin" (when I go to work) is a subordinate clause that provides additional information about the time of the action.
In the above example, "if it stops raining" is a subordinate clause because it cannot stand alone.


Subordinate clauses can be classified into different types, depending on their function in a sentence. The most common types of subordinate clauses in Finnish are:
=== Types of Subordinate Clauses ===


- Adverbial clauses (adverbiaalilauseet)
Subordinate clauses can be categorized based on their function in the sentence. Here are the main types you will encounter:
- Relative clauses (relatiivilauseet)
- Conditional clauses (ehtolauseet)
- Concessive clauses (vastaavuuslauseet)
- Causal clauses (syy-seurauslauseet)
- Purpose clauses (tarkoituslauseet)
- Result clauses (seurauksellisuuslauseet)


In this lesson, we will focus on adverbial clauses, relative clauses, and conditional clauses, which are the most frequently used subordinate clauses in Finnish.
==== 1. Adverbial Clauses ====


== Adverbial Clauses ==
These clauses provide information about the action of the main verb, such as time, reason, condition, or manner.


Adverbial clauses (adverbiaalilauseet) are subordinate clauses that function as adverbs in a sentence. They describe when, where, why, or how an action takes place. Adverbial clauses are formed using conjunctions such as kun (when), koska (because), jotta (so that), and vaikka (although).
Examples:


Here are some examples of adverbial clauses in Finnish:
* '''Time:''' When I finish my homework, I will watch a movie.
 
* '''Reason:''' I am tired because I didn't sleep well.
 
* '''Condition:''' If it rains, we will stay home.
 
==== 2. Relative Clauses ====
 
Relative clauses provide more information about a noun in the main clause. They often begin with relative pronouns.
 
Examples:
 
* '''Who:''' The man who is wearing a hat is my uncle.
 
* '''Which:''' The book that I read was fascinating.
 
==== 3. Complement Clauses ====
 
Complement clauses function as a subject or object in the main clause. They often follow verbs that require a complement.
 
Examples:
 
* '''Subject:''' That he is coming is great news.
 
* '''Object:''' I believe that she is right.
 
=== Forming Subordinate Clauses ===
 
In Finnish, subordinate clauses are typically formed by using conjunctions. Here are some common conjunctions used to introduce subordinate clauses:
 
* '''että''' (that)
 
* '''koska''' (because)
 
* '''jotta''' (so that)
 
* '''jos''' (if)
 
* '''kun''' (when)
 
Let’s look at how these conjunctions work in forming subordinate clauses.
 
==== Examples of Subordinate Clauses ====
 
Here are 20 examples of subordinate clauses in Finnish, showing how they are formed and used:


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
! Finnish !! English
 
! Finnish !! Pronunciation !! English
 
|-
 
| Menen ulos, '''kun sade loppuu.''' || Menen ulos, kun sade loppuu. || I will go outside when the rain stops.
 
|-
 
| Hän on onnellinen, '''koska hän sai työpaikan.''' || Hän on onnellinen, koska hän sai työpaikan. || She is happy because she got a job.
 
|-
|-
| Kun menen töihin || When I go to work
 
| Teen sen, '''jotta voit olla tyytyväinen.''' || Teen sen, jotta voit olla tyytyväinen. || I will do it so that you can be satisfied.
 
|-
|-
| Koska oli aurinkoista, menin ulos kävelylle || Because it was sunny, I went for a walk
 
| Luen kirjaa, '''jota suosittelit.''' || Luen kirjaa, jota suosittelit. || I am reading the book that you recommended.
 
|-
|-
| Jotta voisin oppia suomea, luen paljon kirjoja || So that I can learn Finnish, I read a lot of books
 
| Se on hyvä, '''että tulet mukaan.''' || Se on hyvä, että tulet mukaan. || It is good that you are coming along.
 
|-
|-
| Vaikka satoi, menin ulos || Although it was raining, I went out
 
| Jos sataa, '''jäämme kotiin.''' || Jos sataa, jäämme kotiin. || If it rains, we will stay home.
 
|-
 
| Kun olen valmis, '''soitan sinulle.''' || Kun olen valmis, soitan sinulle. || When I am ready, I will call you.
 
|-
 
| Hän sanoi, '''että hän tulee huomenna.''' || Hän sanoi, että hän tulee huomenna. || He said that he is coming tomorrow.
 
|-
 
| Tiedän, '''että sinä pystyt siihen.''' || Tiedän, että sinä pystyt siihen. || I know that you can do it.
 
|-
 
| Odotan, '''kun sinä tulet.''' || Odotan, kun sinä tulet. || I am waiting for you to come.
 
|-
 
| Hän nauraa, '''koska se on hauskaa.''' || Hän nauraa, koska se on hauskaa. || She laughs because it is funny.
 
|-
 
| En tiedä, '''miksi hän on surullinen.''' || En tiedä, miksi hän on surullinen. || I don’t know why she is sad.
 
|-
 
| Hän syö, '''kun on nälkä.''' || Hän syö, kun on nälkä. || He eats when he is hungry.
 
|-
 
| Mene, '''jos haluat.''' || Mene, jos haluat. || Go if you want to.
 
|-
 
| Hän on siellä, '''koska hän työskentelee.''' || Hän on siellä, koska hän työskentelee. || He is there because he is working.
 
|-
 
| Muista, '''että otat avaimet.''' || Muista, että otat avaimet. || Remember that you take the keys.
 
|-
 
| Voin auttaa, '''jos tarvitset apua.''' || Voin auttaa, jos tarvitset apua. || I can help if you need help.
 
|-
 
| Se on hauskaa, '''kun saamme ystäviä käymään.''' || Se on hauskaa, kun saamme ystäviä käymään. || It is fun when we have friends over.
 
|-
 
| Hän ei tule, '''koska hän on sairas.''' || Hän ei tule, koska hän on sairas. || She is not coming because she is sick.
 
|-
 
| Tiedän, '''että sinä voit onnistua.''' || Tiedän, että sinä voit onnistua. || I know that you can succeed.
 
|-
 
| Tehdään se, '''jotta voimme nauttia.''' || Tehdään se, jotta voimme nauttia. || Let's do it so that we can enjoy.
 
|}
|}


Again, note that the subordinate clause cannot stand alone as a sentence and is connected to an independent clause:
=== Usage of Subordinate Clauses in Sentences ===
 
Subordinate clauses can be used in various ways within sentences to enrich the meaning. Here are some guidelines on how to use them effectively:
 
* '''Placement:''' The position of the subordinate clause can vary. It can come at the beginning, in the middle, or at the end of the main clause. However, when a subordinate clause starts a sentence, it is usually followed by a comma.
 
* '''Punctuation:''' A comma is often used to separate the subordinate clause from the main clause, especially if the subordinate clause is at the beginning of the sentence.
 
* '''Agreement:''' Ensure that the verb in the subordinate clause agrees with its subject, just like in the main clause.
 
=== Exercises: Practice Makes Perfect! ===


- Kun olin lapsi, asuin maalla.
To solidify your understanding of subordinate clauses, here are some exercises for you to complete. Try to form sentences using subordinate clauses as instructed.
When I was a child, I lived in the countryside.


In this sentence, "kun olin lapsi" (when I was a child) is an adverbial clause that describes a past event.
==== Exercise 1: Identify the Subordinate Clauses ====


Adverbial clauses can also be formed using participles (partisiipit) or infinitives (infinitiivit) to describe actions taking place at the same time or prior to those in the main clause. For example:
Read the following sentences and identify the subordinate clauses.


- Suuttuen hän lähti huoneesta.
1. I will call you when I get home.
Angrily, he left the room.


In this sentence, "suuttuen" (angrily) is a participle form of the verb suuttua (to get angry).
2. She loves to read because it relaxes her.


== Relative Clauses ==
3. If you finish your work, we can go out.


Relative clauses (relatiivilauseet) are subordinate clauses that provide additional information about a noun in the main clause. Relative clauses are formed using relative pronouns such as jotka (which), joka (who/which), and jonka (whose).
* __Answers:__


Here are some examples of relative clauses in Finnish:
1. when I get home


- Tämä on mies, joka opettaa minulle suomea.
2. because it relaxes her
This is the man who teaches me Finnish.


In this sentence, "joka opettaa minulle suomea" (who teaches me Finnish) is a relative clause that describes the man.
3. If you finish your work


- Minulla on koira, jonka nimi on Kalle.
==== Exercise 2: Complete the Sentences ====
I have a dog whose name is Kalle.


In this sentence, "jonka nimi on Kalle" (whose name is Kalle) is a relative clause that describes the dog.
Fill in the blanks with the appropriate subordinate conjunctions (että, koska, jos, kun).


Relative clauses can be restrictive or non-restrictive. A restrictive relative clause provides essential information about the noun, while a non-restrictive relative clause provides additional, but not necessary, information. Non-restrictive relative clauses are set off by commas in Finnish.
1. _______ tulee myöhään, en odota.


Here's an example of a non-restrictive relative clause:
2. Hän sanoi, _______ hän ei voi tulla.


- Suomi, joka on pohjoinen maa, on tunnettu talvisesta kauneudestaan.
3. _______ opit kielen, voit matkustaa.
Finland, which is a northern country, is known for its winter beauty.


In this sentence, "joka on pohjoinen maa" (which is a northern country) is a non-restrictive relative clause that provides additional information about Finland.
* __Answers:__


== Conditional Clauses ==
1. Jos


Conditional clauses (ehtolauseet) are subordinate clauses that express a condition that must be met for the main clause to occur. Conditional clauses are formed using conjunctions such as jos (if), kun (when), and ellei (unless).
2. että


Here are some examples of conditional clauses in Finnish:
3. Kun


- Jos voitan lotossa, ostan uuden auton.
==== Exercise 3: Translate to Finnish ====
If I win the lottery, I will buy a new car.


In this sentence, "jos voitan lotossa" (if I win the lottery) expresses the condition for buying a new car.
Translate the following sentences into Finnish, making sure to use subordinate clauses.


- Ellei huomenna sada, menen ulos kävelylle.
1. I will eat when I am hungry.
Unless it rains tomorrow, I will go for a walk.


In this sentence, "ellei huomenna sada" (unless it rains tomorrow) expresses the condition for going for a walk.
2. She is happy because she has friends.


Note that the word order in conditional clauses is the opposite of an affirmative sentence:
3. If it snows, we will go skiing.


- Jos menen ulos, näen ystäväni.
* __Answers:__
If I go out, I will see my friend.


In this sentence, "jos menen ulos" (if I go out) is a conditional clause that expresses the condition for seeing the friend.
1. Syön, kun olen nälkäinen.


== Conclusion ==
2. Hän on onnellinen, koska hänellä on ystäviä.


In this lesson, we have covered the basics of subordinate clauses, including their structure, types, and usage in Finnish. We have learned that subordinate clauses are dependent clauses that cannot stand alone as a sentence and must be connected to an independent clause. The most common types of subordinate clauses in Finnish are adverbial clauses, relative clauses, and conditional clauses. Each type of subordinate clause provides additional information about a sentence's subject, verb, or object in different ways.
3. Jos sataa lunta, menemme hiihtämään.


As you continue to practice forming and using subordinate clauses, you will gain a better understanding of how to construct sentences in Finnish. Keep in mind that the correct use of subordinate clauses is essential to conveying precise and clear messages in Finnish.
==== Exercise 4: Combine the Sentences ====


Remember to practice forming and using subordinate clauses in your writing and speaking!
Combine the following pairs of sentences into one sentence with a subordinate clause.
 
1. I will study. I want to pass the exam.
 
2. She likes ice cream. It is very sweet.
 
3. He is happy. He got a new job.
 
* __Answers:__
 
1. I will study so that I want to pass the exam.
 
2. She likes ice cream because it is very sweet.
 
3. He is happy because he got a new job.
 
==== Exercise 5: Create Your Own Sentences ====
 
Write three sentences using subordinate clauses. Be creative!
 
* __Answers:__ (Answers will vary based on student responses)
 
==== Exercise 6: Punctuation Practice ====
 
Add the necessary punctuation to the following sentences.
 
1. Because it was raining we stayed indoors.
 
2. When she arrives we will start dinner.
 
3. I believe that he is telling the truth.
 
* __Answers:__
 
1. Because it was raining, we stayed indoors.
 
2. When she arrives, we will start dinner.
 
3. I believe that he is telling the truth.
 
==== Exercise 7: Matching Exercises ====
 
Match the Finnish subordinate clauses with their English translations.
 
1. kun hän tulee
 
2. koska se on kaunis
 
3. jos sinä haluat
 
A. if you want 
 
B. when he comes 
 
C. because it is beautiful 
 
* __Answers:__
 
1 - B 
 
2 - C 
 
3 - A 
 
==== Exercise 8: Fill in the Gaps ====
 
Fill in the gaps with the correct form of the verb in the subordinate clause.
 
1. He is happy _______ (know) that he passed the test.
 
2. She goes to bed early _______ (be) tired in the morning.
 
3. We will wait _______ (see) you.
 
* __Answers:__
 
1. knowing
 
2. to be
 
3. to see
 
==== Exercise 9: Rewrite the Sentences ====
 
Rewrite the sentences to include a subordinate clause.
 
1. She is studying. She wants to learn Finnish.
 
2. It is cold. We should wear jackets.
 
3. He is not coming. He is sick.
 
* __Answers:__
 
1. She is studying so that she wants to learn Finnish.
 
2. It is cold, so we should wear jackets.
 
3. He is not coming because he is sick.
 
==== Exercise 10: Reflection ====
 
Reflect on what you have learned in this lesson. Write a short paragraph about how subordinate clauses can help you in your Finnish language studies.
 
* __Answers:__ (Answers will vary based on student reflections)
 
Congratulations on completing this lesson on subordinate clauses in Finnish! Understanding how to form and use these clauses will greatly enhance your ability to communicate effectively in Finnish. Remember to practice regularly and try to incorporate subordinate clauses into your conversations and writing. Keep up the great work, and see you in the next lesson!


{{#seo:
{{#seo:
|title=Finnish Grammar: Conjunctions and Subordinate Clauses - Subordinate Clauses
|keywords=Finnish subordinate clauses, adverbial clauses in Finnish, relative clauses in Finnish, Finnish conditional clauses
|description=Learn all about subordinate clauses in Finnish, including adverbial, relative, and conditional clauses, their structures, types, and usage in sentences. }}


|title=Mastering Subordinate Clauses in Finnish
|keywords=subordinate clauses, Finnish grammar, learning Finnish, Finnish language, language structure
|description=In this lesson, you will learn about subordinate clauses in Finnish, including how to form and use them in sentences effectively.


{{Finnish-0-to-A1-Course-TOC}}
}}
 
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<span openai_correct_model></span> <span gpt></span> <span model=gpt-4o-mini></span> <span temperature=0.7></span>
 
==Sources==
* [https://uusikielemme.fi/finnish-grammar/syntax/sentence-types/sivulause-finnish-sentence-types-subordinate-clauses Sivulause - Finnish Sentence Types: Subordinate Clauses - Uusi ...]
* [https://uusikielemme.fi/finnish-grammar/syntax/constructions/etta-in-finnish-that-in-subordinate-clauses-and-other-situations Että in Finnish - "That" - Subordinate Clauses and More - Uusi ...]
 
 
 
==Other Lessons==
* [[Language/Finnish/Grammar/Pronouns|Pronouns]]
* [[Language/Finnish/Grammar/Negation|Negation]]
* [[Language/Finnish/Grammar/Indefinite-Articles-in-Finnish|Indefinite Articles in Finnish]]
* [[Language/Finnish/Grammar/How-to-Use-Be|How to Use Be]]
* [[Language/Finnish/Grammar/Finnish-Sentence-Structure|Finnish Sentence Structure]]
* [[Language/Finnish/Grammar/Noun-Cases|Noun Cases]]
* [[Language/Finnish/Grammar/Plurals|Plurals]]
* [[Language/Finnish/Grammar/Finnish-Verb-Tenses|Finnish Verb Tenses]]
* [[Language/Finnish/Grammar/Asking-Directions-in-Finnish|Asking Directions in Finnish]]
* [[Language/Finnish/Grammar/Alphabet-and-Pronunciation|Alphabet and Pronunciation]]
 




{{Finnish-Page-Bottom}}
{{Finnish-Page-Bottom}}
<span pgnav>
{| class="wikitable pg_template_nav"
|[[Language/Finnish/Grammar/Conjunctions|◀️ Conjunctions — Previous Lesson]]
|[[Language/Finnish/Vocabulary/Family-Members|Next Lesson — Family Members ▶️]]
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Latest revision as of 00:54, 2 August 2024

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FinnishGrammar0 to A1 Course → Subordinate Clauses

Welcome to this lesson on subordinate clauses in Finnish! Understanding subordinate clauses is essential for constructing more complex and meaningful sentences, allowing you to express your thoughts in greater detail. As you advance in your Finnish studies, you will find that these clauses are pivotal for connecting ideas and providing context, much like the glue that holds your sentences together.

In this lesson, we will explore the following:

  • Definition of subordinate clauses
  • Types of subordinate clauses in Finnish
  • How to form subordinate clauses
  • Usage of subordinate clauses in sentences
  • Examples to illustrate each point
  • Exercises to practice what you've learned

So, let’s dive in!

What are Subordinate Clauses?[edit | edit source]

A subordinate clause is a part of a sentence that cannot stand alone as a complete thought. It adds additional information to the main clause but does not express a complete idea by itself. In Finnish, subordinate clauses are often introduced by conjunctions, similar to English.

For example:

  • English: I will go to the store if it stops raining.
  • Finnish: Menen kauppaan jos sade loppuu.

In the above example, "if it stops raining" is a subordinate clause because it cannot stand alone.

Types of Subordinate Clauses[edit | edit source]

Subordinate clauses can be categorized based on their function in the sentence. Here are the main types you will encounter:

1. Adverbial Clauses[edit | edit source]

These clauses provide information about the action of the main verb, such as time, reason, condition, or manner.

Examples:

  • Time: When I finish my homework, I will watch a movie.
  • Reason: I am tired because I didn't sleep well.
  • Condition: If it rains, we will stay home.

2. Relative Clauses[edit | edit source]

Relative clauses provide more information about a noun in the main clause. They often begin with relative pronouns.

Examples:

  • Who: The man who is wearing a hat is my uncle.
  • Which: The book that I read was fascinating.

3. Complement Clauses[edit | edit source]

Complement clauses function as a subject or object in the main clause. They often follow verbs that require a complement.

Examples:

  • Subject: That he is coming is great news.
  • Object: I believe that she is right.

Forming Subordinate Clauses[edit | edit source]

In Finnish, subordinate clauses are typically formed by using conjunctions. Here are some common conjunctions used to introduce subordinate clauses:

  • että (that)
  • koska (because)
  • jotta (so that)
  • jos (if)
  • kun (when)

Let’s look at how these conjunctions work in forming subordinate clauses.

Examples of Subordinate Clauses[edit | edit source]

Here are 20 examples of subordinate clauses in Finnish, showing how they are formed and used:

Finnish Pronunciation English
Menen ulos, kun sade loppuu. Menen ulos, kun sade loppuu. I will go outside when the rain stops.
Hän on onnellinen, koska hän sai työpaikan. Hän on onnellinen, koska hän sai työpaikan. She is happy because she got a job.
Teen sen, jotta voit olla tyytyväinen. Teen sen, jotta voit olla tyytyväinen. I will do it so that you can be satisfied.
Luen kirjaa, jota suosittelit. Luen kirjaa, jota suosittelit. I am reading the book that you recommended.
Se on hyvä, että tulet mukaan. Se on hyvä, että tulet mukaan. It is good that you are coming along.
Jos sataa, jäämme kotiin. Jos sataa, jäämme kotiin. If it rains, we will stay home.
Kun olen valmis, soitan sinulle. Kun olen valmis, soitan sinulle. When I am ready, I will call you.
Hän sanoi, että hän tulee huomenna. Hän sanoi, että hän tulee huomenna. He said that he is coming tomorrow.
Tiedän, että sinä pystyt siihen. Tiedän, että sinä pystyt siihen. I know that you can do it.
Odotan, kun sinä tulet. Odotan, kun sinä tulet. I am waiting for you to come.
Hän nauraa, koska se on hauskaa. Hän nauraa, koska se on hauskaa. She laughs because it is funny.
En tiedä, miksi hän on surullinen. En tiedä, miksi hän on surullinen. I don’t know why she is sad.
Hän syö, kun on nälkä. Hän syö, kun on nälkä. He eats when he is hungry.
Mene, jos haluat. Mene, jos haluat. Go if you want to.
Hän on siellä, koska hän työskentelee. Hän on siellä, koska hän työskentelee. He is there because he is working.
Muista, että otat avaimet. Muista, että otat avaimet. Remember that you take the keys.
Voin auttaa, jos tarvitset apua. Voin auttaa, jos tarvitset apua. I can help if you need help.
Se on hauskaa, kun saamme ystäviä käymään. Se on hauskaa, kun saamme ystäviä käymään. It is fun when we have friends over.
Hän ei tule, koska hän on sairas. Hän ei tule, koska hän on sairas. She is not coming because she is sick.
Tiedän, että sinä voit onnistua. Tiedän, että sinä voit onnistua. I know that you can succeed.
Tehdään se, jotta voimme nauttia. Tehdään se, jotta voimme nauttia. Let's do it so that we can enjoy.

Usage of Subordinate Clauses in Sentences[edit | edit source]

Subordinate clauses can be used in various ways within sentences to enrich the meaning. Here are some guidelines on how to use them effectively:

  • Placement: The position of the subordinate clause can vary. It can come at the beginning, in the middle, or at the end of the main clause. However, when a subordinate clause starts a sentence, it is usually followed by a comma.
  • Punctuation: A comma is often used to separate the subordinate clause from the main clause, especially if the subordinate clause is at the beginning of the sentence.
  • Agreement: Ensure that the verb in the subordinate clause agrees with its subject, just like in the main clause.

Exercises: Practice Makes Perfect![edit | edit source]

To solidify your understanding of subordinate clauses, here are some exercises for you to complete. Try to form sentences using subordinate clauses as instructed.

Exercise 1: Identify the Subordinate Clauses[edit | edit source]

Read the following sentences and identify the subordinate clauses.

1. I will call you when I get home.

2. She loves to read because it relaxes her.

3. If you finish your work, we can go out.

  • __Answers:__

1. when I get home

2. because it relaxes her

3. If you finish your work

Exercise 2: Complete the Sentences[edit | edit source]

Fill in the blanks with the appropriate subordinate conjunctions (että, koska, jos, kun).

1. _______ tulee myöhään, en odota.

2. Hän sanoi, _______ hän ei voi tulla.

3. _______ opit kielen, voit matkustaa.

  • __Answers:__

1. Jos

2. että

3. Kun

Exercise 3: Translate to Finnish[edit | edit source]

Translate the following sentences into Finnish, making sure to use subordinate clauses.

1. I will eat when I am hungry.

2. She is happy because she has friends.

3. If it snows, we will go skiing.

  • __Answers:__

1. Syön, kun olen nälkäinen.

2. Hän on onnellinen, koska hänellä on ystäviä.

3. Jos sataa lunta, menemme hiihtämään.

Exercise 4: Combine the Sentences[edit | edit source]

Combine the following pairs of sentences into one sentence with a subordinate clause.

1. I will study. I want to pass the exam.

2. She likes ice cream. It is very sweet.

3. He is happy. He got a new job.

  • __Answers:__

1. I will study so that I want to pass the exam.

2. She likes ice cream because it is very sweet.

3. He is happy because he got a new job.

Exercise 5: Create Your Own Sentences[edit | edit source]

Write three sentences using subordinate clauses. Be creative!

  • __Answers:__ (Answers will vary based on student responses)

Exercise 6: Punctuation Practice[edit | edit source]

Add the necessary punctuation to the following sentences.

1. Because it was raining we stayed indoors.

2. When she arrives we will start dinner.

3. I believe that he is telling the truth.

  • __Answers:__

1. Because it was raining, we stayed indoors.

2. When she arrives, we will start dinner.

3. I believe that he is telling the truth.

Exercise 7: Matching Exercises[edit | edit source]

Match the Finnish subordinate clauses with their English translations.

1. kun hän tulee

2. koska se on kaunis

3. jos sinä haluat

A. if you want

B. when he comes

C. because it is beautiful

  • __Answers:__

1 - B

2 - C

3 - A

Exercise 8: Fill in the Gaps[edit | edit source]

Fill in the gaps with the correct form of the verb in the subordinate clause.

1. He is happy _______ (know) that he passed the test.

2. She goes to bed early _______ (be) tired in the morning.

3. We will wait _______ (see) you.

  • __Answers:__

1. knowing

2. to be

3. to see

Exercise 9: Rewrite the Sentences[edit | edit source]

Rewrite the sentences to include a subordinate clause.

1. She is studying. She wants to learn Finnish.

2. It is cold. We should wear jackets.

3. He is not coming. He is sick.

  • __Answers:__

1. She is studying so that she wants to learn Finnish.

2. It is cold, so we should wear jackets.

3. He is not coming because he is sick.

Exercise 10: Reflection[edit | edit source]

Reflect on what you have learned in this lesson. Write a short paragraph about how subordinate clauses can help you in your Finnish language studies.

  • __Answers:__ (Answers will vary based on student reflections)

Congratulations on completing this lesson on subordinate clauses in Finnish! Understanding how to form and use these clauses will greatly enhance your ability to communicate effectively in Finnish. Remember to practice regularly and try to incorporate subordinate clauses into your conversations and writing. Keep up the great work, and see you in the next lesson!

Table of Contents - Finnish Course - 0 to A1[edit source]


Introduction to Finnish


Greetings and Introductions


Nouns and Adjectives


Numbers and Time


Verbs and Tenses


Daily Activities


Questions and Negation


Food and Dining


Prepositions and Postpositions


Travel and Transportation


Finnish Culture and Traditions


Weather and Seasons


Conjunctions and Subordinate Clauses


Family and Relationships


Finnish Literature and Music

Sources[edit | edit source]


Other Lessons[edit | edit source]



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