Katkaiset

Katkaiset is the second-person singular present tense form of the Finnish verb katkaista, meaning to cut off, disconnect, or interrupt. The form is used when addressing someone directly, as in “Sinä katkaiset tämän yhteyden,” meaning you cut off this connection. Katkaista can refer to both physical actions, such as interrupting a power supply or a cable, and figurative actions, such as ending a relationship or halting negotiations.

Etymology and use. The verb katkaista derives from the noun katko, meaning an interruption or break, with the infinitive suffix -ista. Katkaiset functions as a transitive verb, taking a direct object that denotes what is being cut off or disconnected. In Finnish, the exact case of the object can vary depending on aspect and emphasis, but the action is characterized as deliberate and agentive by the subject.

Conjugation basics and examples. Katkaista follows standard Finnish transitive-verb patterns, with katkaiset signaling second-person singular in the present tense. Examples: “Sinä katkaiset yhteyden palvelimeen” (You disconnect the connection to the server), “Sinä katkaiset sähkön päältä” (You cut off the power). The form contrasts with other person forms such as katkaisen (I cut off) or katkaisitte (you plural cut off).

Usage notes. Katkaista emphasizes an active, intentional act of ending a flow, link, or connection, and is often used in technical, logistical, or interpersonal contexts. Synonyms include keskeyttää and lopettaa, though katkaista often carries a stronger sense of abruptness or immediacy.