Poikkeamalla

Poikkeamalla is a Finnish non-finite verb form derived from the verb poiketa, meaning to deviate or diverge. It is the instrumental adverbial participle formed with the suffix -malla/-mällä and is used to indicate the manner in which an action is performed. In English, it roughly corresponds to "by deviating" or "by diverging." The form is common in written Finnish, especially in descriptive prose, analysis, and instructional or technical contexts, where it helps specify that an action was carried out by deviating from a plan, rule, or expectation.

Formation and usage: Poikkeamalla is a non-finite converb that attaches to the main clause to describe the method or means of an action. It behaves like other -malla/-mällä forms such as toimittaen (by acting) or ratkaisten (by solving) and does not introduce its own subject.

Usage notes: The construction is natural when contrasting with standard procedures or expectations. In everyday speech it can sound somewhat formal or technical, but it is a regular part of Finnish grammar and style. It is often found in safety guidelines, legal texts, scientific writing, and analytical discussions where the author wants to emphasize that a result or action occurred through deviation from the norm.

See also: poiketa, poikkeama, poikkeus, poikkeuksellinen.