Eivastaus

Eivastaus is a term used in Finnish discourse analysis to describe a type of reply that does not provide a direct answer to a question. Rather than answering the query, the response tends to deflect, postpone, or reframe it. The word is formed from ei meaning “no” and vastaus meaning “answer,” and it is recognizable to Finnish speakers as a productive description of some conversational moves, even though it is not a formal category in standard Finnish grammar.

Usage and scope: The term appears mainly in academic discussions, media analyses, and online discussions about conversational strategies. It is used to classify a subset of responses that aim to regulate social interaction, protect face, or maintain politeness, rather than to convey information or resolve a question.

Characteristics and functions: Eivastaus encompasses evasion, deflection, hedging, and circumlocution. A typical eivastaus is non-committal, non-specific, or ambiguous, and may serve to buy time, avoid revealing a stance, or reduce confrontation. It is distinguished from a genuine misunderstanding or an off-topic reply; the purpose is often relational or strategic rather than informational.

Examples: In a Q&A context, questions about a deadline may receive a reply such as “Se tarvitsee vielä lisätietoja,” or “Katsotaan myöhemmin,” which do not provide a concrete answer but keep the conversation moving. Such responses illustrate how eivastaus functions as a non-committal reply within everyday communication.

See also: discourse markers, hedging, politeness strategies, non-answers. Eivastaus is discussed as a way speakers manage face-saving and interactional dynamics in conversation.