mahdottomasti

Mahtottomasti is a Finnish adverb meaning absolutely, certainly, or extremely, used to intensify statements or actions. It is formed from the adjective mahdoton (impossible) plus the adverbial suffix -sti. In its literal sense the form would be “in an impossible manner,” but in contemporary Finnish it functions as a strong intensifier.

Usage and nuance: Mahtottomasti is common in both spoken and written Finnish. It can emphasize agreement, enthusiasm, or commitment, and it may appear in contexts that express a strong denial or rejection as well (in phrases equivalent to “absolutely not” in English). The degree conveyed by mahdottomasti is stronger than other intensifiers such as erittäin or todella, and its tone can be emphatic, humorous, or hyperbolic depending on the context.

Grammar and related forms: Mahtottomasti is an adverb and does not inflect for number or case. When used to intensify adjectives, Finns often employ the related form mahdottoman before the adjective (mahdottoman hyvä = extremely good). Related words include mahdoton (impossible), mahdottomuus (impossibility), and the noun form which acts as the basis for the adverb.

See also: mahdoton, mahdottomuus, mahdollisuus.