materiaaliseltaan

Materiaaliseltaan is a Finnish word that translates to "materially" or "in terms of material" in English. It is an adverbial form of the noun materiaali, meaning material. This word is used to describe something based on its physical composition, substance, or the raw materials it is made from.

For example, one might say that two objects are similar "materiaaliseltaan" if they are both made of wood, even if their shapes or colors differ. Conversely, they might be dissimilar "materiaaliseltaan" if one is made of metal and the other of plastic. The term emphasizes the inherent properties and constitution of a thing.

In discussions about art, design, or manufacturing, "materiaaliseltaan" is crucial for understanding the fundamental nature of an object. It can refer to the type of stone used in a sculpture, the fabric of a garment, or the components within an electronic device. The word helps to distinguish and categorize items based on what they are made of, rather than their appearance or function. It focuses on the tangible and physical aspect of existence.