Kunnioittavasti

Kunnioittavasti is a Finnish adverb meaning “in a respectful manner” and, in formal written Finnish, a common closing formula expressing deference to the recipient. It signals politeness and formality and is typically used in official, administrative, or business correspondence directed to someone in a position of authority or outside one’s familiarity.

Etymology and form: the word derives from kunnioitus, meaning “respect,” with the adverbial suffix -sti. In practice, it appears as a closing line in letters and emails: Kunnioittavasti, followed by the sender’s name and contact information. The closing is usually placed on its own line and may be followed by a comma, depending on stylistic preference.

Usage and nuance: kunnioittavasti is relatively formal and can feel ceremonial in contemporary everyday communication. It is often contrasted with more modern closings such as terveisin or ystävällisin terveisin, which are perceived as warmer and less distant. A related form, kunnioittaen, uses a participial construction and serves a similar function in many contexts; however, the choice between closings depends on the audience, purpose, and organizational style guidelines.

Notes: in casual emails or contexts aiming for approachability, kunnioittavasti may seem overly stiff or archaic. When in doubt, it is wise to follow organizational conventions and consider the relationship to the reader to choose an appropriate closing.