iskussa

Iskussa is a Finnish idiomatic expression meaning that someone or something is performing very well, is in good form, or is on a momentum-laden streak. It is often used to describe people, teams, performers, or even situations that are currently achieving success or exhibiting high energy and effectiveness. The sense is less about a single hit and more about a sustained, confident level of performance.

Etymology and nuance: Isku originally means a hit or strike in Finnish, and iskussa conveys being in a state where one is delivering effective “hits” or actions. The metaphor extends to everyday activities, where being iskussa implies natural rhythm, confidence, and smooth execution. The expression is primarily informal and common in spoken Finnish, sports commentary, entertainment, and media coverage.

Usage and context: Iskussa is typically used to praise ongoing performance rather than a temporary moment. It can refer to individuals (a player, a musician) or groups (a team, a band) and is suitable for casual or semi-formal contexts, such as sports reporting or fan commentary. It may also appear in promotional or motivational language to signal momentum or success.

Examples:

- Hän on iskussa tänään. (He/She is in form today / He/She is on fire today.)

- Joukkue on iskussa tällä kaudella. (The team is on a roll this season.)

- Esitys oli iskussa koko illan. (The performance was on fire all night.)

See also: related Finnish expressions for good performance include being “ hyvä vire” (in good spirit/vibe) or “ollut vauhdissa” (in motion).