väitellään

Väitellään is a Finnish word that translates to "let's argue" or "let's debate" in English. It is commonly used to initiate a discussion where differing viewpoints are expected or welcomed. The term can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

In an informal setting, "väitellään" might be used among friends or colleagues to express a playful disagreement or to open up a topic for general discussion. For instance, someone might say, "Tästä asiasta pitää väitellä!" which translates to "We have to argue/debate about this matter!" This signals a desire to explore different perspectives on a particular issue.

In a more formal or academic context, "väitellään" can refer to a structured debate or a thesis defense. The act of defending a doctoral dissertation, for example, is referred to as a väitöstilaisuus, where the candidate "väittelee" (argues/defends) their thesis against opponents. This involves a rigorous academic process of presenting and defending one's research.

The word itself, "väitellään," is the passive form of the verb "väitellä," which means to argue, dispute, or debate. The "-ään" ending signifies a desiderative or hortative mood, indicating a wish or suggestion, hence "let's debate." The underlying concept of engaging in reasoned discussion or argument is central to the word's meaning.