Viilaamalla

Viilaamalla is the form of the Finnish verb viilata in the -malla form, which expresses the manner of performing an action. It functions as an adverbial participle (often described as a gerund-like construction) meaning “by filing,” “by sharpening,” or more generally “by refining.” The word is used to describe how something is done, either literally in crafts and finishing work or metaphorically when referring to refining a process, plan, or technique.

In practical use, viilaamalla refers to the act of smoothing, shaping, or sharpening a surface by filing with a hand tool or machine. It is common in metalworking and woodworking, where a surface is made precise or edges are dulled or sharpened as part of finishing. For example: “Kappaleen reunat saatiin sileiksi viilaamalla.” This indicates that the result was achieved through filing.

Metaphorically, viilaamalla can describe gradual refinement of non-physical things, such as plans, processes, or arguments. For instance: “Suunnitelmaa parannettiin viilaamalla yksityiskohtia,” meaning the plan was improved by refining details.

Etymology and related terms: viilaamalla is derived from viilata (to file, grind, sharpen) with the suffix -malla, which marks instrumental or adverbial meaning. Related words include viilaus (the act of filing or smoothing) and the verb viilata itself. The form is widely understood in Finnish and is used across technical and everyday contexts to denote a method or manner of action.

See also: viilata, viilaus.