Retkelle

Retkelle is a Finnish noun form derived from retki, meaning an excursion or trip. In language use it functions as a directional or purposive form that indicates going toward the activity of a trip rather than the place itself. Practically, retkelle is used with verbs of motion to express the idea of “going on a trip” or “setting off on an outing.”

In everyday language, retkelle appears in common phrases such as mennä retkelle (to go on a trip) or lähteä retkelle (to set off on a trip). It is contrasted with forms that describe where one is, such as retkellä, which means “on a trip” or “on the excursion,” as in Olemme retkellä (We are on a trip). The form retkelle thus conveys movement toward the excursion itself, while retkellä focuses on being located during the excursion.

Etymologically, retkelle is formed from retki plus the suffix -lle, which in Finnish marks direction toward a destination. This aligns with the broader Finnish case system where suffixes convey movement toward or location at a place or activity.

Usage notes and nuances: retkelle emphasizes the planned or initiatory aspect of the journey—going to undertake a trip or excursion—whereas other travel-related terms, such as matkalle, can refer more generally to travel or going somewhere. Retkelle is especially common when the trip is an informal outing, hike, or recreational excursion.

See also: retki (the base noun), retkellä (being on a trip), Finnish case forms and their usage with movement verbs.