ulkonäöllään

Ulkonäöllään is a Finnish word that translates to "with their appearance" or "by their looks." It is a grammatical form, specifically the adessive case of the possessive suffix -nsä combined with the noun "ulkonäkö" (appearance). The adessive case in Finnish generally indicates a location or accompaniment, and in this context, it signifies that something is done or perceived based on one's physical appearance.

The phrase "ulkonäöllään" is often used to describe how someone or something is judged, perceived, or characterized based on their outward presentation. For example, one might say a person is underestimated or overestimated ulkonäöllään, meaning their looks do not accurately reflect their abilities or qualities. It can also be used in contexts where appearance plays a significant role, such as in fashion or performance. The word emphasizes the visual aspect as a determining factor.

Understanding "ulkonäöllään" requires an awareness of Finnish grammar, particularly the adessive case and possessive suffixes. It highlights the role of external appearance in human interaction and perception, a concept present across many cultures but expressed here through a specific linguistic construction. The word itself is a testament to the nuanced ways Finnish can describe how external attributes influence or define situations and individuals.