puhuttella

Puhuttella is a Finnish verb meaning to address or speak to someone directly, often in order to start a conversation, deliver a message, or elicit a response. The action is directed at another person and can occur in casual talk, formal settings, or public discourse. The nuance of the verb depends on context and tone, ranging from a simple greeting to a prompt or admonition.

The verb is transitive and typically takes a direct object referring to the person being addressed, for example: Hän puhutteli minut. The act can express various communicative intents, such as requesting information, giving instructions, or asking questions. The related noun puhuttelu refers to the act of addressing someone or to the direct address itself, and can carry nuanced implications of urging the listener to respond or engage in dialogue, or of presenting a formal address.

In usage, puhuttella is related to puhua (to speak) and keskustella (to discuss), but emphasizes the direct contact with the listener rather than the subject matter. It is common in everyday Finnish as well as in journalism, politics, and public speaking contexts where a speaker aims to engage or confront an audience or individual. Examples include: Hän puhutteli minut ystävällisesti. and Hän puhutteli yleisöä suorasukaisesti. The exact tone and meaning are shaped by context, emphasis, and relationship between speaker and listener.