toistuakseen

Toistuakseen is a Finnish verb form used to express purpose in a non-finite clause. It derives from the verb toistua, meaning to occur again or recur, through the passive infinitive construction with the suffix -akseen. The form conveys a sense of “in order for it to recur” or “so that it may recur,” though translation depends on the broader context. Some grammars also relate it to the related active verb toistaa (to repeat) in explaining its nuance.

Grammatical function and formation are characteristic of the Finnish infinitive system, where -akseen marks a purpose-infinitive. The precise interpretation can vary with the surrounding clause and the main verb’s meaning. In many analyses, toistuakseen functions similarly to other -akseen forms that express purpose in non-finite clauses, rather than as a stand-alone lexical item.

Usage and frequency are notable. Toistuakseen appears most often in formal, literary, or historical Finnish. In contemporary spoken Finnish, the form is relatively rare and may be regarded as archaic or stylistically marked. For clearer or more natural expression in everyday language, speakers typically use a purpose clause with jotta or another finite verb form (for example, jotta se toistuisi) or other non-finite constructions.

See also: Finnish grammar, infinitives, and the -akseen construction. Further discussion can be found in grammars that cover non-finite clauses and the range of purpose-infinitives in Finnish.