kunnolla

Kunnolla is a Finnish adverb meaning in a proper, thorough, or well conditioned manner. It is used to express that an action is carried out adequately or with sufficient quality, or that something is in good shape. The word often conveys emphasis on completeness or thoroughness, rather than a casual or half-hearted execution. It can describe how tasks are performed, how one eats, or how something is checked or maintained.

Etymology and form: kunnolla is derived from the noun kunto, meaning condition or fitness, with the adessive-derived suffix -lla, which forms adverbs describing manner or state. The result is used across everyday language and is common in both spoken and written Finnish. It is closely related to other forms such as kunnossa (in good condition) and to phrases like tehdä kunnolla (do properly, do a thorough job).

Usage and examples: Common contexts include instructions, recommendations, and observations. Examples include: Pese astiat kunnolla. (Wash the dishes properly.) Tee työn loppuun kunnolla. (Finish the work thoroughly.) Hän teki työn kunnolla. (He did the job properly.) Syö kunnolla ennen matkaa. (Eat well/adequately before the trip.) Intensification is possible with words like ihan: Käy kunnolla tarkastamassa ovi. or Tee se ihan kunnolla.

Regional and stylistic notes: Kunnolla is widely used across Finnish-speaking areas and registers, from informal speech to formal guidance. It functions as a flexible adverb that complements verbs and, less commonly, adjectives when describing manner or quality.

See also: kunto, kunnossa, tehdä kunnolla, kielitoimiston sanakirja.