valmistautumaan

Valmistautumaan is the third infinitive form of the Finnish verb valmistautua, meaning to prepare oneself or to get ready. It is a non-finite verb form used to describe preparation in advance of a future event or situation and is typical in formal or written Finnish as well as in certain complex sentence structures.

Grammatical notes: The third infinitive, as in valmistautumaan, is used with certain main verbs to express an action that the subject is undertaking in preparation for something else. It often appears after verbs such as ryhtyä (to begin) or aikoa (to intend), or in constructions that indicate purpose or sequence. The form emphasizes the act of preparation itself rather than a completed action.

Common uses: Valmistautumaan is used to denote preparation for events, tasks, or risks, such as exams, competitions, travel, or emergencies. It answers questions about what one is preparing for and when the preparation is taking place. In everyday speech, speakers may prefer simpler forms like valmistautua, but valmistautumaan remains common in written or formal contexts and in phrases that focus on the preparatory process.

Examples:

- Hän ryhtyi valmistautumaan koitokseen. (He began to prepare for the challenge.)

- On tärkeää valmistautumaan etukäteen. (It is important to prepare in advance.)

See also: valmistautua, the base form of the verb.