milläs

Milläs is a Finnish word that primarily functions as an interrogative adverb. Its most common translation into English is "how" or "by what means." It is used to inquire about the manner, method, or way in which something is done or happens. For example, "Milläs sinä pääset kaupunkiin?" translates to "How do you get to the city?" indicating a question about the mode of transportation.

Beyond its interrogative use, "milläs" can also sometimes be used in a more informal or conversational context to express a sense of curiosity or mild surprise about a situation, almost as an exclamation. In such instances, it might be loosely translated as "What's going on?" or "How come?" However, this usage is less formal and depends heavily on the intonation and context of the conversation.

The word is derived from the Finnish word "mikä," meaning "what," and the instructive case ending "-llä," which typically denotes means or instrument. Therefore, its literal breakdown suggests "by what" or "with what," reinforcing its core meaning of inquiring about the method or tool used. It is a fundamental part of everyday Finnish conversation.