laskeakseen

Laskeakseen is a Finnish non-finite verb form derived from the verb laskea. It is formed by attaching the suffix -akseen to the stem in the third infinitive, creating the infinitive of purpose (tarkoitusinfinitiivi). The form expresses the aim or intention of an action, roughly equivalent to “in order to” in English.

As a non-finite form, laskeakseen does not change for person or number and does not take its own subject. It typically appears in sentences that describe the purpose of the main action, either in subordinate clauses or after a main verb. In standard Finnish, it is most common in written or formal language, including instructional, legal, or explanatory texts, but it can also appear in literary styles.

Usage notes:

- Laskeakseen follows a verb that describes the main action whose purpose is being stated.

- It can be used with verbs related to various meanings of laskea, including lowering or reducing, as well as counting, depending on context.

- The construction often replaces simpler “to …” phrases in English, providing a concise way to indicate intent.

Examples:

- Hän säästi rahaa laskeakseen kustannuksia. (He saved money in order to reduce costs.)

- Toimittajat käyttivät mittauksia laskeakseen virheitä raportissa. (The reporters used measurements to check/calculate errors in the report.)

Related forms include other infinitive constructions in Finnish, such as the basic infinitive (laskea) and the present or perfect forms that serve different grammatical purposes. Laskeakseen serves a specific function: it clarifies the goal behind an action in a compact, formal way.