ikäessään

"Ikäessään" is a Finnish word that translates to "in its time" or "in their time." It is an adverbial phrase used to indicate that something occurred or was relevant during a specific historical period. The word is formed by combining the noun "ikä" (age, time) with the inessive case suffix "-ssä" (in) and the possessive suffix "-än" (its/their).

The phrase "ikäessään" is often used when discussing historical events, cultural phenomena, or scientific discoveries to contextualize them within the era in which they happened. For example, one might say that a particular invention was groundbreaking "ikäessään," meaning it was revolutionary for its time but might seem less so by modern standards. Similarly, it can be used to describe the social norms or beliefs prevalent during a specific period.

The usage of "ikäessään" emphasizes the relativity of judgment and understanding. It encourages an appreciation for the limitations and advancements of different historical periods, preventing anachronistic evaluations. It serves as a reminder that the significance and impact of events, ideas, or objects are often best understood when viewed through the lens of their contemporary context. This phrase is a useful tool for nuanced historical analysis and discussion.