korkeakielillä

Korkeakielillä is a Finnish term that literally translates to "with high tongues" or "on high languages." It is a colloquial expression used to describe speaking in a pompous, overly formal, or unnecessarily complicated manner. It implies that the speaker is using sophisticated or obscure vocabulary and sentence structures, often to impress or distance themselves from the listener, rather than to communicate clearly and effectively. The phrase often carries a slightly negative connotation, suggesting pretentiousness or a lack of genuine understanding on the part of the speaker, or that they are deliberately making things difficult for the listener.

The use of korkeakielillä can occur in various contexts, from academic discussions to everyday conversations where someone might be trying to sound more intelligent or knowledgeable than they actually are. It's the opposite of speaking plainly or using common language. For example, instead of saying "the situation is complicated," someone speaking korkeakielillä might use a convoluted phrase involving abstract nouns and passive voice. This style of speech is often a target of humor in Finnish culture, as it is seen as a sign of inauthenticity. The intention behind speaking korkeakielillä is usually to elevate oneself or the subject matter, but it can easily backfire, leading to confusion or derision.