vahvoilla

Vahvoilla is a Finnish idiomatic expression used to indicate that a person or group is in a favorable or advantageous position in a situation. It is formed from the adjective vahva (strong) and the adessive suffix -lla, and literally conveys being on strong grounds or on strong footing. The phrase is most commonly found in combination with olla (to be) to describe a current or expected advantage, such as in negotiations, competition, or decision-making processes.

Usage and nuance: In everyday language as well as journalism, vahvoilla signals leverage or an advantage that may be temporary or situational rather than absolute. It does not guarantee success, but it suggests a favorable position at a given moment. The expression can be used across contexts including politics, business, sports, and general planning.

Examples include: Meillä on nyt vahvoilla neuvotteluissa. Joukkue on vahvoilla ennen ottelua. Taloudellinen tilanne antaa yritykselle vahvoilla asemat markkinoilla. These examples illustrate the typical pattern with olla and show how the phrase conveys relative strength rather than certainty.

Grammatical notes: vahvoilla is the adessive plural form of vahva used in the set phrase olla vahvoilla. It often appears with olla or other verbs describing state or progress. Related expressions include saada etulyöntiasema (to gain the upper hand), olla voitolla (to be ahead), and olla hyvillä asemilla (to be in good positions), each with its own nuanced emphasis on advantage.