kirkastaa

Kirkastaa is a Finnish verb meaning to brighten or clarify. It is used both literally and figuratively. In a literal sense it describes increasing light, brightness, or vividness of something. In a figurative sense it can mean making something easier to perceive, more coherent, or more vivid in meaning, mood, or atmosphere.

Etymology: The word is formed from the adjective kirkas, meaning bright or clear, with the typical verb ending -taa to create a transitive verb.

Usage: It is used transitively with an object that becomes brighter or clearer. Examples: "Uusien lamppujen asennus kirkasti huoneen." "Valo kirkasti kuvan värejä." "Hänen puheensa kirkasti viestin." The nuance tends toward enhancement of clarity or brightness rather than a simple state change. In everyday language, kirkastaa can refer to physical improvements in lighting or color as well as to sharpening or clarifying communication, explanations, or arguments.

See also: kirkas, kirkastaminen, selkeyttää, valaista.