Arvostavasti

Arvostavasti is a Finnish adverb meaning "with respect" or "respectfully." It is formed from the root arvost- (to value or respect) and the adverbial suffix -sti, yielding a manner-of-action expression. The word functions to describe how something is spoken, written, or performed, with an emphasis on regard for the recipient or subject.

In practice, arvostavasti is most common in formal or semi-formal contexts. It can describe manners in speech or writing, as in phrases such as he spoke arvostavasti, meaning he spoke in a respectful manner. It is also used as a closing formula in written correspondence, where "Arvostavasti" may appear as a stand-alone line followed by the sender’s name, signaling a respectful and professional tone.

Nuance and usage notes: arvostavasti signals deference toward the recipient and a formal register. It can come across as too stiff or ceremonial in casual communication, so speakers and writers often prefer alternatives like kunnioittavasti (more standardly “respectfully”), kohteliaasti (courteously), or ystävällisin terveisin (friendly regards) in informal or everyday contexts.

See also: arvostaa, the verb meaning to value or respect; kunnioittavasti, a closely related formal closing; kohteliaasti, a general term for courtesy in speech and writing.

Examples:

- Hän kirjoitti arvostavasti ja selkeästi. (He wrote in a respectful and clear manner.)

- Arvostavasti, [Nimi], is a typical closing in formal letters.