Valmistaen

Valmistaen is a Finnish present adverbial participle derived from the verb valmistaa, meaning to prepare or to manufacture. It denotes a concurrent or accompanying action and is typically translated into English as “preparing” or “while preparing.” In usage, valmistaen introduces a non-finite clause that describes how the action of the main verb is carried out, rather than indicating purpose.

The form is commonly used in written Finnish, especially in descriptive, instructional, or literary contexts. It belongs to a broader set of Finnish adverbial participles that express manner or simultaneity, such as juostessaan (while running) or kirjoittaen (by writing). The participle can appear before or after the main clause and is often set off by commas when used as an introductory modifier.

Examples include: Valmistaen ruokaa, hän laittoi pöydän valmiiksi. This sentence means “While preparing the meal, he set the table.” Valmistaen ruokaa, hän kertoi tarinan illustrates how the action of preparing accompanies the main action of speaking. In general, the subject of the participial clause should have a clear connection to the main clause to avoid ambiguity.

Notes on style and use: valmistaen is more common in literary or formal prose and in instructional writing than in everyday spoken Finnish, where simpler verb forms or subordinate clauses are typically preferred. As with other adverbial participles, careful punctuation and clear reference to the subject help maintain readability.

Etymology: valmistaen comes from the verb valmistaa (to prepare) with the adverbial participle ending, fitting into Finnish grammar as a non-finite clause that conveys accompanying action.