Formaalimmin

Formaalimmin is a Finnish adverb meaning “more formally” or “in a more formal manner.” It functions as the comparative form used to describe actions, speech, or behavior that display a higher degree of formality compared with another, typically in explicit contrast.

Formaalimmin is formed from the adjective formaallinen (formal). The standard adverb form is formaalisesti or formaalisesti, meaning formally, while formalaimmin or formalaimmin variants surface in everyday speech as the comparative adverb expressing increased formality. In practice, formaalimmin appears in contexts where speakers want to compare levels of formality between events, statements, or conduct.

Usage is common in written and spoken Finnish, especially in professional, academic, or formal settings. It allows speakers to articulate nuanced differences in how something is conveyed or enacted. For example, phrases can contrast formality levels such as: “Hän puhui formaalimmin kuin aiemmin” (He spoke more formally than before) or “Tilaisuus järjestettiin formaalimmin kuin viime vuonna.” The word is part of standard Finnish grammar and is typically used alongside other degree-marking forms such as the base adverb formaalisesti.

Etymology and related terms: formaallinen is borrowed from English formal, itself from Latin formalis. The corresponding adverb is formed with the -sti suffix to mean “formally,” while the comparative adverb uses the -min/-immin pattern to indicate a higher degree of formality. Related terms include formaali (formal, in a general sense) and formaalisesti (formally in adverbial usage).

See also: formaali, formaalisesti.