mutta

Mutta is a Finnish conjunction that translates to "but" or "however" in English. It is used to introduce a contrast or exception between two clauses or phrases and is one of the most common words in contemporary Finnish, appearing across informal speech and written text.

In syntax, mutta connects two main clauses or coordinated phrases. When it links independent clauses, a comma typically precedes mutta. The second clause generally follows standard Finnish word order, and the use of mutta does not change the basic sentence structure of either clause. Examples include: "Hän oli valmis, mutta ei lähtenyt." (He was ready, but did not leave.) and "Se on kallis, mutta hyvä." (It is expensive, but good.)

Mutta can also introduce a contrasting idea within a single sentence or be used to soften a statement by presenting an opposing point. It is commonly paired with other common Finnish words such as "ja" (and) or "kuitenkin" (nevertheless) to vary tone and emphasis. In everyday speech, mutta is versatile and appears in a wide range of registers, from casual conversation to formal writing.

Etymologically, mutta is a native Finnic word with long-standing use in the Finnish language, distinct from borrowed equivalents like English "but." It remains a fundamental connector in the language, essential for expressing contrast and nuance in argument and description. See also: Finnish grammar, Finnish conjunctions.