Kunnioittakaa

Kunnioittakaa is the second-person plural imperative form of the Finnish verb kunnioittaa, meaning to respect or to honor. It is used when addressing a group and asking or directing them to show respect.

Grammar and formation: The form is created from the verb stem kunnioitta- with the imperative plural suffix -kaa, resulting in kunnioittakaa. The singular imperative form is kunnioita. Kunnioittakaa is commonly found in formal or public contexts, such as guidelines, rules, or direct address to audiences.

Usage and functions: Kunnioittakaa is often employed in official or collective contexts where a group is expected to behave considerately toward others, toward regulations, or toward shared spaces. It conveys a directive or expectation rather than a mere suggestion and can carry a formal or firm tone depending on the surrounding language.

Examples:

- Kunnioittakaa toisten yksityisyyttä. (Respect others’ privacy.)

- Kunnioittakaa sääntöjä ja ohjeita. (Respect the rules and instructions.)

- Kunnioittakaa tilaa, jossa olette. (Respect the space you are in.)

Related terms: kunnioitus (respect, regard), kunnioittaminen (respectful conduct, act of respecting).

Etymology: The form derives from the verb kunnioittaa, with the imperative plural suffix -kaa, reflecting Finnish verbs’ system for addressing multiple people. See also common imperatives in Finnish used for public guidance or collective conduct.