mahdollisimman

Mahdollisimman is a Finnish degree modifier used to express the maximum extent of a quality, roughly translating to as much as possible or as ... as possible. In practice it appears in phrases that pair with adjectives or adverbs to indicate the utmost degree that is feasible or desired, for example in sentences like tee mahdollisimman nopeasti or arvioidaan mahdollisimman tarkasti.

Etymology and form: the word is derived from the adjective mahdollinen (possible) and functions as a fixed adverbial superlative form. It is not a standalone adjective but a stem that combines with other words to intensify them. The usual pattern is mahdollisimman followed by the positive form of the target adjective or adverb.

Usage and nuances: mahdollisimman is common in both spoken and written Finnish. It is typically used to express urgency, efficiency, or thoroughness, as in “mahdollisimman nopeasti” (as quickly as possible) or “mahdollisimman tarkasti” (as accurately as possible). It can also occur with adjectives in attributive position, as in “mahdollisimman hyvä ratkaisu.” In formal or careful prose it often appears as a concise alternative to longer constructions such as niin nopeasti kuin mahdollista or niin tarkasti kuin on mahdollista. The phrase tends to carry a strong practical emphasis and may feel forceful if overused.

Variants and alternatives: for softer or more neutral tone, speakers may choose niin nopeasti kuin mahdollista or niin ... kuin mahdollista, depending on context. The choice between mahdollisimman and related constructions depends on style, emphasis, and regional preference.

Examples: Tee tämä mahdollisimman nopeasti. Arviointi tehdään mahdollisimman tarkasti. Heitä säästökohteet mahdollisimman pieniksi. Translation: Do this as quickly as possible. The evaluation will be as accurate as possible. Cut the savings targets as much as possible.