Pärjätään

Pärjätään is a Finnish word that can be translated in several ways depending on the context, but it generally conveys a sense of managing, coping, or getting by. It is often used as a response to the question "Miten menee?" (How are you doing?) or "Oletko pärjännyt?" (Have you managed/coped?).

As a verb in the third-person plural future, "pärjätään" literally means "we will manage" or "we will cope." However, in common usage, it's more flexible. It can express a positive outlook, suggesting that a situation will be handled successfully. For example, "Kyllä me pärjätään" translates to "Yes, we will manage" or "We'll be alright." This phrase often carries a tone of reassurance, either for oneself or for others.

The word can also be used in a more resigned manner, implying that one is simply getting by without excelling. In this sense, it might be translated as "We're getting by" or "We're making do." The subtle difference in meaning often depends on the speaker's intonation and the surrounding conversation.

Beyond its literal verbal use, "pärjätään" can also be used as an interjection or a standalone utterance to express a general sentiment of resilience and determination in the face of challenges. It's a versatile expression that reflects a common cultural attitude of facing difficulties with a pragmatic and often optimistic approach.