Istumaan

Istumaan is a Finnish non-finite verb form derived from the verb istua, meaning to sit. It is commonly described as a second infinitive form formed with the suffix -maan/-mään, and it is used to express the act of sitting in relation to other actions, especially movement or purpose. In practice, istumaan often translates as “to sit down” or conveys the idea of sitting down as part of a larger action.

Usage and examples

Istumaan appears in phrases that describe going to sit or settling into a seating position. For example, mennä istumaan means “to go and sit down,” and asettua istumaan can mean “to settle down to sit.” It can also function as a verbal noun indicating the act of sitting, with meaning dependent on the surrounding context. Examples of usage include sentences like Hän meni istumaan penkille, meaning “He went to sit on the bench,” and Mennään istumaan pöydän ääreen, meaning “Let’s go sit at the table.”

Grammatical notes

As a non-finite form, istumaan does not carry its own subject or finite tense. It is used in combination with other verbs or in constructions that express purpose, intention, or sequence of actions. It is closely related to istua (to sit) and is contrasted with other non-finite forms of the verb, such as the base infinitive istua or participial forms. The exact meaning of istumaan can shift with context, sometimes emphasizing the act of sitting, other times focusing on the purpose of sitting.

Etymology and relation to related forms

Istumaan is built from the root istu- of istua with the common Finnish second infinitive suffix -maan/-mään. This form is part of Finnish grammar’s non-finite verb system and has parallels with other verbs that describe intentional or purposeful actions involving movement or change of state.

See also: istua, istuutua, Finnish grammar, second infinitive.