itsälle

itsälle is a Finnish word that translates to "to oneself" or "for oneself". It is a reflexive pronoun used in the dative case to indicate that an action is performed by a subject on or for that same subject. For example, "Hän antoi itselleen lahjan" means "He gave himself a gift." The pronoun "itse" means "self", and the ending "-lle" signifies the allative case in Finnish, often indicating direction or purpose.

The usage of itsälle is common in everyday Finnish conversation and writing. It emphasizes the reflexive nature of an action, distinguishing it from actions directed towards others. Understanding itsälle is crucial for comprehending Finnish grammar, particularly when dealing with verbs that inherently involve self-action or when expressing concepts of self-care, self-reflection, or self-interest.

Beyond its literal translation, itsälle can also carry a more idiomatic meaning, implying that something is done with personal benefit or for one's own good, even if not explicitly stated. This nuance allows for a more subtle expression of personal motivation or advantage within a sentence.