yhden

Yhden is the genitive singular form of the Finnish numeral yksi, meaning "one." In Finnish grammar, some numerals take a distinct genitive form when used to indicate possession or quantity, and yhden serves this function for one. It is used with nouns to show that the noun is possessed by or associated with one item or unit.

In usage, yhden is commonly found in phrases describing quantity, time, value, or ownership. Examples include yhden ihmisen koti (one person’s home), yhden päivän lomapäivä (one day’s leave), or yhden euron kolikko (a one-euro coin). The form remains the same regardless of the noun it accompanies, with the rest of the noun in its appropriate case (often genitive, as shown in the examples).

Etymologically, yhden derives from the numeral yksi with a genitive suffix, aligning with Finnish patterns where numerals inflect to express related concepts such as possession or measurement. It contrasts with the partitive and other cases of yksi, which appear in different grammatical contexts.

Notes on grammar: kuten with other genitive forms, yhden is used when the quantity is specified as a unit or when the noun it modifies is in a possessive or descriptive relationship that calls for genitive case. It does not occur as a standalone pronoun and is not used in the nominative position except at the beginning of sentences where capitalization applies.

See also: Finnish grammar, numerals in Finnish.