suomalaisina

Suomalaisina is the plural translative form of the Finnish adjective-noun suomalainen, meaning “Finn.” It is used to express a role, identity, or state assumed by people who are Finns, and it often translates to “as Finns” or “in the capacity of Finns” in English. The word is not a standalone noun but a predicative or complement in clauses.

In use, suomalaisina typically follows a verb of becoming or acting, and it denotes that the subject is acting in the role of Finns. Examples include: Hän toimii suomalaisena. (He acts as a Finn.) He toimivat suomalaisina kanssakäymisissä ulkomailla. (They function as Finns in interactions abroad.) The form can also appear in parallel constructions to emphasize collective or plural identity.

Morphologically, suomalaisina is the plural translative form. The singular translative is suomalaiseksi (as a Finn / into becoming a Finn). The base adjective or noun is suomalainen, and the translative plural suffix -ina/-inä is attached to convey “as ...” for multiple individuals. This contrasts with other cases such as the nominative plural suomalaiset (Finns).

Nuanced usage: suomalaisina is common in discussions of national identity, cultural belonging, and diaspora contexts, where people speak about acting or existing in the role of Finns rather than merely being Finns by birth. See also suomalainen, suomalaisuus, kansalaisuus.