Äitinne

äitinne is a Finnish noun form meaning “your (plural or polite) mother.” It combines the word for mother, äiti, with the second-person possessive suffix -nne. The form is used when referring to the mother of the people being addressed in a formal or plural context.

Grammatical notes: In Finnish, possessive suffixes attach to the possessed noun. Äitinne signals that the mother belongs to the you (plural) or to a formal addressee. This contrasts with äitisi, which means “your (singular, informal) mother.” The choice between äitinne and äitisi marks level of formality and whether one is addressing one person politely or multiple people.

Usage and style: äitinne is more common in formal speech, official writing, or when addressing several people. In everyday casual conversation with a single person, äitisi is typically preferred. Because it carries a degree of formality, languages speakers may perceive äitinne as respectful or slightly distant in informal settings.

Examples:

- Äitinne soittaa. (Your mother is calling.)

- Olen kuullut, että äitinne voi hyvin. (I have heard that your mother is well.)

See also: Finnish language, possessive suffixes, äiti.