puhutaanko

Puhutaanko is a Finnish verb form used to pose a question about speaking, typically in the sense of “shall we speak” or “are we going to speak.” It is formed from the passive present stem puhuta- of the verb puhua (to speak) plus the question suffix -ko/-kö, yielding puhutaanko. In this construction the subject is understood as we, but it is not explicitly stated in the sentence.

Usage and examples provide a clear sense of its function. Common contexts include deciding which language to use or introducing a topic for discussion. Examples include: "Puhutaanko suomea?" meaning “Shall we speak Finnish?”; "Puhutaanko ruotsia?" meaning “Shall we speak Swedish?”; "Puhutaanko tästä?" meaning “Shall we talk about this?” The form is neutral and versatile, suitable for both informal and somewhat formal settings, depending on tone and context. It contrasts with the declarative passive "puhutaan," which means “it is spoken” or, in some cases, “we speak (passively).”

Notes on grammar and usage. The -ko/-kö clitic attaches directly to the verb stem: puhutaanko. The construction is a standard way in Finnish to frame proposals or invitations in conversation. Etymologically, it combines the passive stem of puhua with the interrogative suffix, reflecting Finnish patterns for forming questions with the -ko/-kö particle. While common in everyday speech, Puhutaanko remains one of several ways to introduce a discussion about language or topic choice.