Lähdetäänkö

Lähdetäänkö is a Finnish phrase that translates directly to "shall we go?" or "are we leaving?". It is a common and versatile expression used in everyday conversation to initiate departure or to inquire about the possibility of leaving a current location.

The phrase is formed from the verb "lähteä" (to leave, to go) and the interrogative particle "kö" attached to the first-person plural indicative present tense form "lähdemme" (we leave). The combination "lähdemmekö" is then contracted in spoken Finnish to "lähdetäänkö" for ease of pronunciation. This elision is a typical feature of colloquial Finnish.

"Lähdetäänkö" can be used in a variety of contexts. It might be spoken by someone who is ready to depart and is checking if others are as well, such as when leaving a friend's house or a meeting. It can also be used more generally to suggest an activity that involves moving from one place to another, like "Lähdetäänkö elokuviin?" (Shall we go to the movies?). The tone of voice and the surrounding context usually make the specific meaning clear. It functions as a gentle suggestion or an invitation to embark on a journey or activity together.