yläkulmassa

Yläkulmassa refers to a Finnish term that translates roughly to "upper corner" or "top corner" in English. In Finnish culture, the phrase is often associated with a traditional game played during the Christmas season, particularly in rural areas. The game typically involves a group of people, often children, standing in a circle while one person, the "upper corner" player, tries to catch others by moving around the circle. The name likely originates from the practice of the player standing in the upper corner of the circle, from which they attempt to tag others.

The game is a variation of tag and is commonly played during festive gatherings, especially around the Christmas holidays. It reflects the communal and playful nature of Finnish winter traditions. The rules can vary slightly depending on the region or family, but the core concept remains the same: evading the "upper corner" player while they attempt to tag others.

Yläkulmassa is also sometimes used metaphorically in Finnish to describe a situation where someone is in a dominant or advantageous position, similar to being "in the driver’s seat." This usage highlights the dual meaning of the term—both as a literal game and as a figurative expression in everyday language.

The game is a small but meaningful part of Finnish holiday customs, emphasizing the importance of social interaction and fun during the winter months. While it may not be widely known outside Finland, it remains a cherished tradition for many Finns, particularly in preserving cultural heritage through playful activities.