asettaakseen

Asettaakseen is a Finnish non-finite verb form, specifically the third infinitive of the verb asettaa, meaning to set, place, or arrange. It is used to express purpose or intent in relation to a main action and typically links to the subject of the main clause.

In usage, asettaakseen appears in subordinate constructions that describe why or for what purpose the main action is performed. The form is commonly found in written or formal Finnish, and it functions similarly to phrases such as “in order to …” in English. The subject of the infinitive is usually the same as the subject of the main clause, and the infinitive clause indicates the intended outcome of the action.

Examples illustrate the general pattern. In the sentence “Hän siirsi pöydän asettaakseen sen keskelle huoneen,” the main verb (siirsi) is followed by asettaakseen to express the purpose of moving the table—placing it in the center of the room. Another example is “Hän käytti kameran jalkaa asettaakseen kameran oikeaan asentoon,” where the tripod is used to place the camera in the correct position.

Etymologically, the form combines the verb stem with the third infinitive ending, here written as -akseen. The construction is part of Finnish grammar for precise expression of purpose, distinguishing it from the basic infinitive or participial forms.

Overall, asettaakseen serves to convey intentional, purpose-driven actions within complex sentences, aligning the outcome with the main clause’s action.