valikoivalla

Valikoivalla is the adessive singular form of the Finnish adjective valikoiva, meaning selective. In language use, valikoivalla describes actions, processes, or policies carried out or operating in a selective manner. It is commonly found in formal or analytical writing when a writer wants to emphasize careful or discriminating choices.

Etymology and grammar: The construction combines valikoiva with the adessive suffix -lla, which in Finnish marks a location, manner, or basis. In practice, valikoivalla forms part of adverbial phrases such as valikoivalla tavalla ("in a selective manner") and valikoivilla perusteilla ("on selective grounds/with selective bases"). As an adjective in this form, it typically modifies a noun in the corresponding context or appears in a predicate-like phrase within a sentence.

Usage: Valikoivalla is most common in discussions of decision-making, procurement, policy design, or editorial commentary where selectivity is a defining characteristic. It helps to convey that choices are not random or egalitarian but guided by criteria or preferences. The term is less frequent in everyday casual speech and more typical in journalism, politics, academia, or professional writing.

Limitations and notes: Valikoivalla should not be treated as a proper noun unless it is used as a brand name or as the title of a work. When translating or interpreting, consider the broader nuance of selectivity rather than treating it as a simple synonym for other terms like “careful” or “discriminating.”

See also: valikoiva, valikointi, valinta, perusteet.