työön

Työn is the genitive singular form of the Finnish noun työ, which means work, labor, or job. It is used to indicate possession or a close relation between work and another element in a sentence. For example, työn tulokset means the results of the work, and työn arvo refers to the value of work. The form also appears in phrases that describe the nature or quality of work, such as työn laatu (the quality of work).

Etymology and grammar: Työ is a native Finnish noun, and työn is its genitive form. In Finnish, the genitive singular is used to show ownership or association, and työn is one such instance where the word for work takes a genitive ending when linked to another noun or concept. The noun työ and its genitive form koulute often appear across inflected cases, with työn standing specifically as the genitive singular.

Compounding and related terms: In Finnish compounds, työn functions as a linking stem in words that denote relations to work. Notable examples include työntekijä (employee) and työnantaja (employer). In these words, the form työn- signals a connection to work and helps form a broader class of terms related to labor and employment.

Semantics and usage: The concept of työn encompasses both concrete tasks and broader notions of labor, employment, and production. It is widely used in economic, sociological, and everyday contexts to discuss what people do, the value of that activity, and the organization of work.