Laitteena

Laitteena is the essive case form of the Finnish noun laite, meaning “as a device” or “in the capacity of a device.” The essive marks a temporary state or role in predicative constructions, typically after verbs such as olla (to be) or toimia (to function). It is used to describe how something functions or what role it plays in a given situation, rather than a permanent identity.

Etymology and grammar: The form laitteena is created by adding the essive suffix -na/-nä to laite. The essive generally signals temporary state, function, or status, and is common in Finnish to express roles like “as a teacher” (opettajana) or “as a device” (laitteena). It contrasts with the translative form laitteeksi, which expresses change or transformation into a device or function.

Usage notes: Laitteena is typically used in clauses where the subject or object has a function or role in a process. It does not imply a permanent label but rather how something is used or perceived in the moment. It often appears with verbs indicating function or usage.

Examples:

- Se toimi laitteena testissä. (It functioned as a device in the test.)

- Se oli laitteena testin aikana. (It was in the role of a device during the test.)

See also: Finnish grammar, Essive case, laite, opettajana, johtajana.