tervehdus

Tervehdus is a Finnish noun that denotes a greeting or salutation. It can refer to the act of greeting someone as well as to the specific phrase or expression used to acknowledge another person or to convey goodwill. In everyday language the related form tervehdys is more commonly heard, but tervehdus is understood and appears in some contexts, especially when discussing the concept in linguistic or literary terms.

Etymology and related forms: The word is derived from the verb tervehtiä, to greet. It is semantically linked to wishing health and well-being, a traditional motivation behind greetings in many cultures. In Finnish usage, several closely related forms are common: tervehdys (the more typical singular for a greeting), tervehdykset or terveiset (plural forms used in plural references and in conventional phrases). The phrase Lämpimät terveiset is a standard closing in letters and emails, equivalent to “warm regards.” Another frequent closing is Ystävällisin terveisin, meaning “With kind regards.”

Usage and style: Tervehdus can appear in both spoken and written Finnish. As a greeting at the start of a message, it may function as a formal or informal opening depending on the context and the choice of wording. In professional communication, openings such as Tervehdys or Tervehdys arvoisa vastaanottaja are common, while closings often employ terveiset or terveisin phrases like Lämpimät terveiset or Ystävällisin terveisin. In literature and speeches, a direct use of tervehdus may illustrate the act of greeting a character or audience.

See also: tervehdys, terveiset, tervehdykset, tervehtiä.