Loppuerän

Loppuerän is a Finnish term that translates to "final period" or "ending part" in English. It is most commonly used in the context of sports, particularly ice hockey, to refer to the last period of a game. In a typical ice hockey match, the game is divided into three periods, each of length 20 minutes of playing time. The loppuerä is therefore the third and final of these periods.

The significance of the loppuerä often lies in its critical role in determining the outcome of a close game. Teams that are trailing may employ more aggressive tactics, such as pulling their goaltender for an extra attacker, in an attempt to score. Conversely, teams that are leading might focus on strong defensive play and puck possession to run down the clock and secure their victory. The intensity and drama of the loppuerä are a key part of the spectator experience in many sports.

Beyond sports, the term "loppuerä" can also be used more generally to describe the concluding phase of any event, project, or process. For example, one might refer to the "loppuerä" of a parliamentary debate or the "loppuerä" of a long negotiation. In these instances, it signifies the period where final decisions are made, agreements are solidified, or conclusions are reached. The core meaning remains consistent: the final, decisive part of something.