kuultavaksi

Kuultavaksi is a non-finite verb form in Finnish, derived from the verb kuulla, which means to hear. It is the passive infinitive form and translates roughly as “to be heard” or “to be made audible.” The form is used to express an action related to hearing that is not performed by the subject of the clause, but rather occurs to or for someone else, or in a context where the action is reported or anticipated.

In practice, kuultavaksi appears primarily in formal, literary, or bureaucratic Finnish, where non-finite passive constructions are more common. It is used to indicate information, events, or actions that are intended to be heard, known, or conveyed, rather than actions carried out by the subject. Its use can convey a sense of objectivity or passivity that differs from everyday spoken language, where finite verbs or other non-finite forms are more typical.

Grammatically, kuultavaksi is part of the broader Finnish system of infinitives and participial forms, including the passive voice and non-finite clauses. It sits alongside other non-finite forms such as the active infinitives and the passive present participle, providing a way to describe hearing-related events without specifying a subject performing the action. The exact meaning and nuance of kuultavaksi are highly context-dependent, varying with accompanying verbs, mood, and discourse style.

See also: Finnish grammar, infinitives, passive forms, non-finite clauses.