Likimallisesti

Likimallisesti is a Finnish adverb meaning approximately, roughly, or in rough terms. It signals that a figure, estimate, or description is not exact but near the stated value or description.

Etymology: the form derives from liki, meaning nearly, with the noun or adjective form likimalli meaning an approximate model or close estimate; the suffix -isesti forms an adverb, used to modify verbs, adjectives, or whole clauses.

Usage: used in both spoken and written Finnish to hedge statements, especially with numbers, times, costs, measurements, or forecasts. With numbers: likimallisesti 5 000 euroa or likimallisesti kaksi vuotta. In mathematical or scientific contexts, it signals an approximate value, for example pi likimallisesti 3,14.

Nuances and synonyms: related expressions include noin, suurin piirtein, and likimäärin. Noin or suurin piirtein can be more colloquial, while likimallisesti may be suited to more formal writing. The word emphasizes the roughness of the estimate rather than a precise value, and it is commonly used to convey cautious estimation or approximation in discussion, planning, and reporting.

See also: suurin piirtein; likimääräinen.