vähemminkin

Vähemminkin is a Finnish adverbial particle that translates to "even less" or "to an even lesser extent." It functions as a comparative intensifier, indicating that a certain condition or degree is even more reduced or diminished than previously stated or implied. It is often used to express a surprising or unexpected reduction.

The particle is formed by combining the comparative form of the adjective "vähän" (little, few), which is "vähemmän" (less), with the enclitic particle "-kin" (also, even). This combination imbues the word with the meaning of an intensified degree of "less." For example, "Hän tiesi vähemminkin kuin luulin" translates to "He knew even less than I thought."

Vähemminkin can modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. It implies a contrast or a further degree of something already considered minimal. It can also be used to express understatement or a modest assessment. The particle's placement in a sentence is typically after the word or phrase it modifies, or it can be attached to the verb. Understanding its usage requires attention to the context to grasp the precise nuance of the diminished degree being conveyed.