Korkeasti

Korkeasti is a Finnish adverb meaning highly or to a high degree. It is used to intensify an adjective, a participle, or a verb, conveying a formal sense of degree or esteem. In written and formal spoken Finnish, korkeasti often appears where a strong evaluation or commendation is intended.

Etymology and construction: korkeasti is formed from the adjective korkea, meaning high, with the adverbial suffix -sti. This pattern is common in Finnish for creating adverbs that express degree, such as nopeasti (quickly) or vaikeasti (with difficulty). The word is invariable and does not have separate comparative or superlative forms.

Usage and examples: Korkeasti is typically reserved for formal or academic language. It tends to modify adjectives or participles, and can also modify verbs in passive or evaluative contexts. Examples include: “Korkeasti arvostettu professori piti puheenvuoronsa” (A highly respected professor gave his speech), “korkeasti koulutettu henkilöstö” (highly educated staff), and “tutkimus on korkeasti arvostettu alalla” (the research is highly regarded in the field).

Usage notes: In everyday speech, speakers may opt for less formal intensifiers such as hyvin, todella, or paljon, depending on nuance. Korkeasti carries a formal tone and is common in news reporting, academic writing, official statements, and prose with elevated style.

Related terms and contrasts: Other adverbs with -sti form intensifiers include nopeasti (rapidly), selvästi (clearly), and perusteellisesti (thoroughly). The choice between korkeasti and synonyms depends on register and the strength of emphasis desired.