kaantua

Kaantua is a Finnish verb meaning to turn, bend, or tilt, and it can refer to a change of direction in space as well as to a physical bend of an object or body. The sense can be literal, as when something curves or changes its orientation, or figurative, describing a shift in plans, opinions, or events. In practical usage, kaantua often appears with directions such as oikealle (to the right) or vasemmalle (to the left).

Etymology and related forms: kaantua is derived from the noun kaanto, meaning a turning or bending, with the common verb-forming suffix -ua. The verb forms a standard Finnish verb with typical tense and aspect markers. The past tense is often kaantui (it/they turned), and the past participle is kaantunut (having turned). The verb is used intransitively, describing the action of turning without requiring a direct object. Related terms include kaanto (the act or result of turning) and kääntyä, a more common synonym in many driving and navigational contexts.

Usage notes: kaantua is versatile and can describe physical movement, the bending of an object, or a change in direction in a plan or situation. It can be contrasted with kääntyä, which is frequently preferred for turning a vehicle or changing direction in driving contexts. In figurative language, kaantua conveys a shift or redirection in circumstances, viewpoints, or trajectories.

See also: kaanto, kääntyä, kiertyä.