kannalta

Kannalta is a Finnish linguistic term used to express perspective, viewpoint, or aspect. It is a postpositional form derived from kanta, meaning basis or standpoint, combined with the suffix -lta, which conveys “from.” In use, kannalta typically follows a noun in genitive to specify whose standpoint is being considered, creating phrases such as maatalouden kannalta or talouskasvun kannalta. The expression roughly translates to “from the point of view of” or “in terms of.”

Usage and function

Kannalta is common in formal writing, analysis, journalism, and policy discourse, where it helps compare different perspectives or assess implications from a particular angle. The standard construction is X:n kannalta, where X is a noun in the genitive. It can be used with a variety of domains, including economics, environment, education, and social policy, to indicate the viewpoint being discussed. While kannalta emphasizes perspective, other Finnish expressions like näkökulmasta convey a similar sense; kannalta often carries a slightly denser sense of a defined standpoint.

Examples

- Talouskasvun kannalta investoinnit ovat tärkeitä. (From the standpoint of economic growth, investments are important.)

- Ympäristön kannalta ratkaisut voivat olla kalliita. (From the environmental standpoint, the solutions can be costly.)

- Sosiaalisen hyvinvoinnin kannalta ohjelman vaikutukset ovat merkittäviä. (From the social welfare perspective, the program’s effects are significant.)

See also

näkökulma, näkökulmasta, vakaumukset and other perspective-oriented expressions.