palveluja

Palveluja is the plural partitive form of the noun palvelu, meaning services. It is used when talking about services in general or when the amount is indefinite, for example: "tarjota palveluja" (to provide services) or "ostimme erilaisia palveluja" (we bought various services). The base word palvelu derives from the verb palvella, to serve.

In economic and social contexts, services are intangible activities that satisfy needs or wants. They are typically produced and consumed at the same time and are distinguished from goods by their intangibility and the inseparability of provider and recipient. The service sector, or palveluala, encompasses a wide range of activities, including health care, education, financial services, transportation, accommodation, information technology, and public administration.

Usage notes: in Finnish, palveluja appears as the object form of the noun in many sentences, such as "antaa palveluja" (to provide services) or "tarvita palveluja" (to need services). It can be accompanied by adjectives or numerals, for example "monia palveluja" (many services) or "palvelujen saatavuus" (availability of services). The term is common in both public discourse and private sector language, reflecting the importance of services in modern economy and society.

Examples: kuntien tarjoamat palveluja include basic welfare functions such as health clinics, libraries, and daycare centers. Companies offer services like consulting and maintenance services.