perinteellisen

Perinteellinen is a Finnish adjective meaning traditional or conventional, referring to practices, objects, or cultures rooted in tradition. It is formed from the noun perinne (tradition) with the suffix -ellinen, which creates an adjective meaning “having the characteristics of” or “pertaining to.”

Grammar and forms: The word inflects like other -inen adjectives. In the genitive singular it appears as perinteellisen; in the plural nominative as perinteelliset; in the plural genitive as perinteellisten. In use, it commonly modifies a noun, for example perinteellinen ruokavalio (traditional diet) or perinteellinen suomalainen talo (traditional Finnish house).

Usage and nuance: Perinteellinen usually conveys that something is linked to long-standing customs and methods, and it can express authenticity or continuity with the past. The tone is typically neutral, but in some contexts it may carry a nostalgic or positive connotation. It contrasts with moderni (modern) and can be distinguished from perinteikäs, which may imply quaintness or old-fashioned charm, though there is overlap in everyday language.

Related concepts include perinne (tradition) and kansanperinne (folklore/traditional culture), which describe the broader heritage and practices from which the traditional characteristics derive. Perinteellinen is widely used across culture, cuisine, design, architecture, and everyday discourse to denote practices and objects that reflect longstanding customs.