Iskemäiskeminen

Iskemäiskeminen is a term used in Finnish internet slang to describe a repetitive, often performative pattern of flirting with multiple people, typically in online dating contexts or on social media. The concept centers on repeatedly attempting to “hit on” someone, sometimes with escalating tactics, and it is commonly discussed in memes or casual online discussions rather than in formal discourse.

Origin and linguistics: Iskemäiskeminen appears to be a contemporary neologism formed from the base verb iskemi, meaning to flirt or hit on, with an intensified reduplication that conveys repetition or exaggeration. It is not part of standard Finnish dictionaries and is largely confined to online communities and youth slang.

Usage: The term is usually used as a joke or self-deprecating comment, for instance when someone notices a pattern of persistent flirting in themselves or others. It may appear in discussions about dating etiquette, online behavior, and consent, serving as a prompt to reflect on respectful communication.

Reception: Iskemäiskeminen is often framed playfully, but commentators warn against aggressive persistence or harassment. In discussions about online dating culture, the term illustrates how rapid, repeated flirting can blur boundaries and lead to negative impressions.

See also: Flirting in Finnish culture, Dating apps, Internet slang, Finnish lexicon.