turha

Turha is a Finnish adjective meaning useless, unnecessary, or futile. It is used to describe actions, objects, or situations that are considered to have little value or to waste time, effort, or resources. Common collocations include turha vaiva (unnecessary trouble), turha työ (unneeded work), and turha valinta (unnecessary or poor choice). The term is often contrasted with words like välttämätön (essential) or tarpeellinen (necessary).

In grammar, turha typically modifies a noun (e.g., turha vaiva) or appears predicatively in sentences such as Se on turha (That is useless). The adverb form turhaan means “in vain” or “pointlessly,” as in Hän yritti turhaan (He tried in vain). The noun turhuus, meaning futility or vanity, is related etymologically and is used in more literary or formal contexts to express broader futility.

Usage notes include that turha conveys a negative evaluation and is common in everyday language, journalism, and writing. It can describe material objects as well as actions, plans, or efforts, and its strength can vary with context—from mild criticism to a stronger judgment that something is clearly wasted or pointless.

See also: turhuus (futility, vanity); turhaan (in vain); turhauttava (frustrating).