tuomalla

Tuomalla is a Finnish non-finite verb form associated with the verb tuomita, meaning to judge or condemn. It expresses the sense of “by judging” or “through judgment” and is typically used as an adverbial or participial construction rather than as a finite verb. In grammar, tuomalla functions as a non-finite clause element that indicates manner or means in a sentence, without providing its own finite verb.

Usage and context

The form is most commonly found in formal, legal, or historical Finnish and is relatively rare in everyday speech. In modern usage, speakers often prefer other non-finite forms such as tuomittaessa or tuomiten, or subordinate clauses to express similar ideas. Tuomalla can introduce means or methods in a sentence, but its exact interpretation depends on context and the surrounding verbs and nouns.

Relation to other forms

Tuomalla is related to the broader family of non-finite forms derived from tuomita. Depending on the context, similar expressions may be formed to convey “while judging,” “by delivering a verdict,” or other related notions of judgment or decision. The choice between tuomalla and alternative non-finite forms often reflects register, precision, and the speaker’s intent.

Grammatical notes

As a non-finite construction, tuomalla typically does not assign its own subject separate from the main clause; the subject is usually shared. Clear reference is ensured through context, and in ambiguous cases other non-finite forms or full subordinate clauses may be preferred.

See also

tuomita, tuomio, oikeuslaitos, kielioppi

References

Finnish grammar resources and dictionaries covering non-finite verb forms and participles.