tarkenna

Tarkenna is a Finnish verb meaning "to clarify" or "to make more precise." It is used to request more exact information, to narrow down options, or to refine a description. The word is common in everyday language as well as in journalism, business communication, and editing contexts.

Etymology and related forms: Tarkenna derives from tarkka, meaning "precise." It is closely related to tarkentaa (to specify more precisely) and tarkennus (focus or specification). The form tarkenna appears as the imperative, commonly used to give a direct instruction to become more precise.

Usage: Tarkenna is typically used when statements are vague or ambiguous. It emphasizes precision rather than generality; selvennä means "explain more clearly," while tarkenna pushes for exactness. It can govern questions, descriptions, requirements, and plans.

Examples:

- Tarkenna, mitä tarkoitat tällä? (Please clarify what you mean by this.)

- Voisitko tarkanen seuraavaa kohtaa? (Could you specify the next section?—note: standard phrasing is "Voisitko tarkentaa seuraavaa kohtaa?")

- Tarkenna kysymyksesi, jotta voimme vastata. (Please narrow down your question so we can answer.)

Translations: In English, commonly rendered as "to clarify," "to be more specific," or "to narrow down."

See also: tarkennus, tarkentaa, tarkentaminen.