Ratkaista

Ratkaista is a Finnish verb meaning to solve, resolve, determine, or decide something. It is used for solving problems or puzzles, answering questions, or bringing matters to a conclusion. In mathematics and computing contexts, it refers to finding a solution to an equation or a system of equations. The noun form ratkaisu denotes a solution, conclusion, or decision.

The verb is common in both spoken and written Finnish and appears in a wide range of contexts, from everyday problems to formal decision-making. Typical collocations include ratkaista ongelma (to solve a problem), ratkaista kysymys (to settle a question), and ratkaista tilanne (to resolve a situation). It can describe bringing about a final result or closure, and in passive constructions it may express that a matter is resolved, for example, a matter being resolved or a decision having been reached.

Examples of usage are straightforward: ongelma ratkaistiin eilen (the problem was solved yesterday). kysymys ratkaistaan (the question is being/gets resolved). These illustrate the culmination-oriented sense of the verb.

Etymology and related terms: ratkaista is closely connected to the noun ratkaisu, meaning solution or decision. Related verbs such as ratketa (to be resolved or to come to a conclusion) describe the outcome or process from a different grammatical angle. In many everyday and formal contexts, ratkaista and its related forms are central to discussions about problems, decisions, and the concluding of matters.