Modifioimalla

Modifioimalla is the gerund form of the Finnish verb modifioida, meaning to modify. It functions as an instrumental or adverbial participle that expresses the means by which an action is performed. In Finnish, it is typically translated as “by modifying” or “through modification.”

Formation and usage: The form is created from the verb stem modifioi- plus the instrumental gerund suffix -malla. It connects a main clause to a dependent phrase that states the method or means of an action and is common in procedural, technical, and analytical writing. It can introduce how an outcome is achieved without specifying the subject performing the action.

Examples: Modifioimalla asetuksia voidaan parantaa suorituskykyä. By modifying the settings, performance can be improved. Modifioimalla ohjelmistoa voidaan korjata useita virheitä. By modifying the software, several errors can be fixed.

Relation and notes: Modifioimalla is one of several Finnish instrumental gerunds formed with -malla/-mällä. It shares its function with similar forms such as tekemällä (by doing) and hakemalla (by fetching). The term originates from the loan verb modifioida, itself related to the English word modify. See also Finnish grammar on gerunds and adverbial participles.