valmistelemalla

Valmistelemalla is a non-finite verbal form of the Finnish verb valmistella, meaning to prepare. It functions as an adverbial participle that expresses the manner, means, or method of an action, and is commonly translated into English as "by preparing" or "through preparing."

Formation and use: The form is created by attaching the suffix -malla to the verb stem (valmistella → valmistelemalla). It belongs to the non-finite verb forms in Finnish known as converbs or adverbial participles. Valmistelemalla introduces a dependent clause that describes how the main action is performed or what preparatory step was taken, often indicating means or method.

Example: Valmistelemalla aineistoa huolellisesti, tutkimus eteni. In this sentence, the action of preparing the material serves as the means by which the subsequent action proceeds. Another example is: Valmistelemalla aineistoa, tutkijat varmistivat tulokset.

Usage notes: The -malla form is common in written Finnish, especially in formal, technical, or descriptive prose. It is less frequent in everyday spoken language, where finite clauses or other non-finite forms may be used instead. The construction helps to compactly show how tasks are carried out and to emphasize preparatory work as a condition or method for the larger action.

Relation to other forms: Valmistelemalla is one of several non-finite verb forms in Finnish that express adverbial relations. It is distinct from the noun valmisteleminen (preparation) and from other participial or infinitive forms used for different grammatical purposes.