Kasvokkainen

Kasvokkainen is a Finnish term that translates directly to "face-to-face" or "in person" in English. It is commonly used in everyday conversation to describe an interaction, meeting, or communication that occurs directly between individuals, as opposed to through a mediated channel such as a phone call, email, or video conference.

The concept of kasvokkainen emphasizes the direct physical presence and personal engagement between people. It implies a level of immediacy and often a richer, more nuanced form of communication that can include non-verbal cues like body language and facial expressions. In contexts where trust, empathy, or detailed discussion is important, preferring a kasvokkainen approach is often seen as beneficial.

For example, a business negotiation might be preferred to be conducted kasvokkainen to build rapport and address complex issues more effectively. Similarly, sensitive personal matters are frequently discussed kasvokkainen to ensure clear understanding and emotional connection. While technology has enabled many forms of remote communication, the value placed on direct, in-person interaction remains significant in Finnish culture, as reflected in the common use of the term kasvokkainen.