Mieluummin

Mieluummin is a Finnish adverb that expresses preference or choice. It means "preferably" or "rather," and is used when the speaker indicates they would choose one option over another.

In usage, mieluummin is invariable and typically appears in comparative constructions with the word kuin, meaning "than." It can accompany verbs, nouns, or adjectives to signal preference. For example: Mieluummin menen kahville kuin teelle (I would rather go for coffee than tea). Mieluummin tekisin tämän nyt kuin huomenna (I would rather do this now than tomorrow). The construction often follows a form of the verb or an implied situation and does not change for person or tense.

Mieluummin is common in everyday speech and can be found in both informal and formal registers. It commonly conveys a flexible, voluntary choice rather than obligation or necessity. In more formal writing, speakers may use full phrases such as mieluummin kuin, to align the preference clearly in a comparison.

Etymologically, mieluummin derives from the root mieli, meaning mind or inclination, combined with a grammatical form that yields an adverb indicating preference. Related expressions convey related nuances of desire or willingness, but mieluummin itself specifically marks the preferred option in a contrastive sense. See also: mieluummin kuin.