Selittämisenä

Selittämisenä is a Finnish word that translates to "as an explanation" or "for the sake of explanation" in English. It is a common adverbial phrase used to introduce a statement or action that is being provided to clarify a situation, provide context, or offer reasons for something. The word "selittämisenä" is derived from the verb "selittää," meaning "to explain."

The phrase functions to signal to the listener or reader that the subsequent information is intended to make something clearer or more understandable. For example, one might say "Hän kertoi sen selittämisenä, miksi hän oli myöhässä" which translates to "He told it as an explanation for why he was late." In this context, "selittämisenä" indicates that the preceding statement is the reason or justification for his tardiness.

"Selittämisenä" can also be used to frame a hypothetical situation or a demonstration. If someone is showing how to do something, they might preface their actions by saying "Teen tämän selittämisenä, miten se toimii" meaning "I am doing this as an explanation of how it works." This usage emphasizes the instructive or demonstrative purpose of the action.

The word's structure, ending in "-nä," signifies a state or role. Thus, "selittämisenä" literally means "in the state of being an explanation" or "acting as an explanation." It is a nuanced grammatical form that adds a specific semantic layer to communication, highlighting the explanatory intent behind a remark or behavior.