Signification
Heading to learn something.
Contexte culturel
The 'Ylioppilaslakki' (white cap) is a symbol of completing high school and being 'menossa opiskelemaan' to higher education. It is worn every May Day (Vappu). Finns often use the word 'lukea' (to read) interchangeably with 'opiskella' (to study) in this phrase. It is very common for adults in their 40s or 50s to say they are 'menossa opiskelemaan' a new trade, as career changes are culturally supported. Student overalls (haalarit) are a sign that someone is 'opiskelemassa'. When you are 'menossa opiskelemaan' a specific field, you look forward to getting your color of overalls.
The '-maan' Rule
Whenever you use a verb of motion like 'mennä' or 'lähteä', the next verb almost always ends in '-maan' or '-mään'.
Don't forget 'olla'
Without 'olla' (olen, olet...), the phrase 'menossa opiskelemaan' is just a fragment. Always conjugate 'olla'!
Signification
Heading to learn something.
The '-maan' Rule
Whenever you use a verb of motion like 'mennä' or 'lähteä', the next verb almost always ends in '-maan' or '-mään'.
Don't forget 'olla'
Without 'olla' (olen, olet...), the phrase 'menossa opiskelemaan' is just a fragment. Always conjugate 'olla'!
Sound like a native
Use 'menossa opiskelee' in casual text messages to friends. It's the standard spoken form.
Teste-toi
Fill in the correct form of 'opiskella'.
Olen menossa __________ suomea.
After 'menossa', you must use the third infinitive illative form ending in -maan.
Which sentence means 'I was going to study'?
Select the correct past tense version:
'Olin' is the past tense of 'olla'.
Match the phrase to the situation.
You just got into university and are telling your friend.
This phrase is perfect for announcing future study plans.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'Miksi sinulla on reppu selässä?' B: 'Koska olen __________ __________.'
The context of having a backpack suggests you are currently heading to study.
🎉 Score : /4
Aides visuelles
Banque d exercices
4 exercicesOlen menossa __________ suomea.
After 'menossa', you must use the third infinitive illative form ending in -maan.
Select the correct past tense version:
'Olin' is the past tense of 'olla'.
You just got into university and are telling your friend.
This phrase is perfect for announcing future study plans.
A: 'Miksi sinulla on reppu selässä?' B: 'Koska olen __________ __________.'
The context of having a backpack suggests you are currently heading to study.
🎉 Score : /4
Questions fréquentes
10 questionsYes, it works for anything from a 1-day workshop to a 5-year degree.
'Menen' is a simple action, while 'olen menossa' describes your current state or a firm plan.
It is always 'opiskelemaan' because of vowel harmony (o, a, u are back vowels).
Usually, it implies going somewhere (like a library), but you can use it if you are setting aside dedicated time at home.
It is neutral. It's safe to use with your boss or your best friend.
En ole menossa opiskelemaan.
Yes, but 'menossa kouluun' is more common for young children.
Then say 'Olen opiskelemassa' (I am studying).
It can, but it also means you have the intention to start soon (e.g., next semester).
Yes! 'Olen menossa syömään' (I'm going to eat), 'Olen menossa nukkumaan' (I'm going to sleep).
Expressions liées
lähteä opiskelemaan
similarTo leave to study (often implies moving city).
alkaa opiskella
similarTo start studying.
pyrkiä opiskelemaan
builds onTo apply to study.
päästä opiskelemaan
builds onTo get in to study.
lopettaa opiskelu
contrastTo stop studying.
