kirjoittain

Kirjoittain is a Finnish adverb meaning in writing or in a written form. It is derived from the verb kirjoittaa (to write) and is used to indicate that information, statements, or actions occur or should occur in written form rather than orally. The word belongs to formal and bureaucratic language and is commonly found in official documents, contracts, and administrative texts.

Usage and context

Kirjoittain is typically used to distinguish written communications from spoken ones. It often appears in instructions, requirements, or records that must be provided or recorded in writing. A common contrast is with suullisesti, meaning orally. In many formal contexts, specifying that something must be done “kirjoittain” helps ensure a documented and verifiable record, such as decisions, notices, or submissions.

Examples

- Päätös on annettu kirjallisesti. Translation: The decision has been issued in writing.

- Väitteen toimittamisen on tehtävä kirjallisesti. Translation: The claim must be submitted in writing.

- Asiakirjat on toimitettava kirjallisesti viimeistään perjantaina. Translation: The documents must be delivered in writing no later than Friday.

Notes

Kirjoittain is predominantly used in formal Finnish and legal or administrative texts. For everyday speech, speakers typically rely on more common expressions like “kirjallisesti” or simply refer to something being written rather than stating the mode explicitly. The term is part of a broader set of adverbs that describe modalities of communication, alongside suullisesti (orally) and digitaalisesti (in digital form) in some contexts.