At the A1 level, you don't need to use 'soveltuva' often. It is a big, complex word. Instead, you usually learn the word 'sopiva'. 'Sopiva' means 'good' or 'fits'. For example, 'Tämä paita on sopiva' (This shirt fits). 'Soveltuva' is more like 'correct for a job'. If you see 'soveltuva' on a sign, just think 'This is okay to use here'. It is an adjective, so it describes a noun. You might see it on food packaging, like 'soveltuva kasvissyöjille' (suitable for vegetarians). At this stage, focus on the idea that things have a purpose. If a toy is 'soveltuva lapsille', it means children can play with it safely. Don't worry about the grammar too much yet, just recognize that '-va' at the end often means the word is describing something. You can think of it as a more formal way to say 'hyvä' (good) for a specific thing. If you want to say something is suitable, you can just say 'Se käy' (It works/It's okay) or 'Se on sopiva'. Learning 'soveltuva' now will help you later when you read official Finnish papers or look for a job in Finland. It is like the difference between saying 'The water is okay to drink' and 'The water is suitable for human consumption'. The second one is what 'soveltuva' feels like.
At the A2 level, you are starting to see more formal Finnish. You might encounter 'soveltuva' in instructions or simple job advertisements. It is important to notice that it often comes with another word that ends in -lle or -Vn (illative). For example, 'soveltuva työhön' (suitable for work). The root of the word is 'soveltaa', which means 'to apply'. So, 'soveltuva' means something that can be applied to a situation. You can use it when talking about tools or materials. 'Onko tämä maali soveltuva ulos?' (Is this paint suitable for outdoors?). Even though 'sopiva' is still your best friend, using 'soveltuva' makes you sound a bit more advanced. It shows you are thinking about the function of an object. Remember that Finnish adjectives change their endings. If you have many things, 'soveltuva' becomes 'soveltuvat'. For example, 'nämä kengät ovat soveltuvat juoksuun' (these shoes are suitable for running). You will also see the negative form 'soveltumaton' (unsuitable). If you see a sign that says 'uimiseen soveltumaton ranta', it means the beach is not suitable for swimming. This is very useful for safety! Try to use 'soveltuva' when you are talking about the use of a tool or a specific rule.
At the B1 level, you should begin to distinguish between 'sopiva' and 'soveltuva'. 'Sopiva' is for general suitability, size, or time ('Sopiiko kello viisi?' - Does five o'clock work?). 'Soveltuva' is for functional or technical appropriateness. You will hear this word in the workplace and in news broadcasts. It is a key word for 'aptitude' or 'applicability'. For example, 'soveltuva työkokemus' (applicable work experience). When you are writing a CV in Finnish, you might describe your skills as 'tehtävään soveltuva' (suitable for the task). Grammatically, you should be comfortable with the illative case following the word: 'soveltuva tarkoitukseen'. You should also know the noun 'soveltuvuus' (suitability/aptitude). Many professional fields in Finland require a 'soveltuvuuskoe' (aptitude test), especially for teachers, nurses, and police officers. If you are discussing a project, you might say, 'Tämä ratkaisu on soveltuva meidän tarpeisiimme' (This solution is suitable for our needs). Notice how 'tarpeisiimme' is in the illative plural with a possessive suffix. This level of complexity is expected at B1. You are moving away from simple descriptions and starting to explain why something is chosen based on its properties. Using 'soveltuva' correctly shows that you understand the professional register of the Finnish language.
At the B2 level, 'soveltuva' becomes a standard part of your professional and academic vocabulary. You are expected to use it in formal essays and business meetings. You should understand the nuance that 'soveltuva' implies an objective match between a thing's properties and a requirement. For example, in a legal context, 'soveltuva lainsäädäntö' (applicable legislation) refers to the specific laws that must be considered. In science or engineering, you would use it to describe materials: 'titaani on soveltuva materiaali lääketieteellisiin implantteihin' (titanium is a suitable material for medical implants). You should also be aware of the phrase 'soveltuvin osin', which means 'as applicable' or 'where appropriate'. This is common in contracts and instructions. 'Sääntöjä noudatetaan soveltuvin osin' (The rules are followed where applicable). This shows a high level of linguistic control. You should also be able to use the word in different cases without hesitation. For instance, 'Etsimme henkilöä, jolla on soveltuva tutkinto' (We are looking for a person who has a suitable degree). Here, 'soveltuva' is in the nominative/accusative. If you were to say 'Etsimme soveltuvaa henkilöä', it's partitive because the search is ongoing. The distinction between 'soveltuva' (passive-like state) and 'soveltava' (active, e.g., 'soveltava tutkimus' - applied research) is also crucial at this stage.
At the C1 level, you use 'soveltuva' with precision and understand its subtle implications in various registers. You recognize that 'soveltuva' is often preferred in administrative and legal Finnish to avoid the subjectivity of 'sopiva'. In a C1 context, you might analyze whether a certain methodology is 'soveltuva' for a specific research question. You are also proficient in using the word's derivatives, such as 'soveltuvuusarviointi' (suitability assessment). You understand that 'soveltuva' can function as a bridge between theory and practice. For example, a theory might be 'yleisesti soveltuva' (generally applicable), but not 'soveltuva tähän yksittäistapaukseen' (applicable to this individual case). You should be able to discuss the 'soveltuvuus' of a candidate in a nuanced way, perhaps noting that while their education is 'soveltuva', their practical experience is 'puutteellinen' (lacking). You are also familiar with the bureaucratic use of the word in phrases like 'soveltuva viranomainen' (the appropriate/competent authority). At this level, you don't just know the word; you know the weight it carries. It signals a move from personal opinion to professional judgment. You can also handle complex sentence structures where 'soveltuva' is part of a long modifier string: 'erityisesti vaativiin olosuhteisiin soveltuva pinnoite' (a coating particularly suitable for demanding conditions). Your use of the word is fluid, correctly declined, and contextually perfect.
At the C2 level, 'soveltuva' is a tool for absolute precision. You can distinguish between 'soveltuva', 'sovellettava', 'asianmukainen', and 'tarkoituksenmukainen' in high-level legal, philosophical, or technical discourse. You might use 'soveltuva' when discussing the ontological 'fitness' of a concept within a framework. For instance, you could argue whether a specific ethical framework is 'soveltuva' for governing artificial intelligence. In the realm of law, you understand the deep implications of 'soveltuva laki' in private international law (lainvalinta). You are also capable of using the word ironically or metaphorically in literature, though its primary home remains the professional sphere. You can use the word in highly condensed structures, such as 'soveltuvuusperusteinen valinta' (suitability-based selection). Your command of the word family—including 'sovellettavuus', 'soveltuvuusrajoite', and 'soveltamisala'—is complete. You can navigate the most complex Finnish texts, such as the 'Suomen säädöskokoelma' (Statute Book of Finland), where 'soveltuva' defines the boundaries of legal power. At C2, the word is no longer a vocabulary item to be remembered, but a precise instrument for defining reality, utility, and law. You understand that the choice of 'soveltuva' over 'sopiva' is not just about style, but about establishing a framework of objective criteria and professional standards.

soveltuva en 30 secondes

  • Soveltuva means 'suitable', 'applicable', or 'appropriate' in a formal or technical context.
  • It is derived from the verb 'soveltaa' (to apply) and focuses on functional fitness.
  • It usually requires the illative case (-Vn) to indicate what something is suitable for.
  • It is more professional and objective than the common word 'sopiva'.
The Finnish word soveltuva is a high-level adjective derived from the verb soveltaa, which means 'to apply' or 'to adapt'. In its essence, soveltuva describes something that is not just a 'good fit' in a physical sense, but something that is functionally appropriate, applicable, or qualified for a specific purpose, role, or context. While the word sopiva is the more common, everyday term for 'suitable' or 'fitting' (like a shirt that fits or a time that is good), soveltuva carries a more formal, technical, or evaluative weight. You will encounter it frequently in professional settings, legal documents, academic writing, and job descriptions. It suggests that a thorough assessment has been made to determine if the object or person meets the specific criteria required for the situation. For instance, in a job advertisement, an employer might look for a 'soveltuva koulutus' (applicable education), implying that the degree must specifically align with the tasks at hand.
Functional Fit
The word implies that the subject possesses the necessary qualities to function correctly in a given environment.
Professionalism
Using this word instead of 'sopiva' elevates the register of your speech or writing, making it sound more precise and authoritative.
When a Finn says something is soveltuva, they are often referring to its utility. For example, a piece of land might be soveltuva rakentamiseen (suitable for construction). This isn't just an opinion; it's a statement about the land's technical properties.

Tämä menetelmä on erittäin soveltuva nykyiseen markkinatilanteeseen.

This sentence highlights how the word is used to bridge the gap between a tool (the method) and its application (the market situation). In legal contexts, soveltuva laki refers to the 'applicable law', the specific set of rules that must be followed in a particular case. This demonstrates the word's necessity in defining jurisdiction and relevance.

Etsimme tehtävään soveltuvaa henkilöä, jolla on vankka kokemus alalta.

Here, the focus is on the individual's qualifications and their alignment with the job's demands.
Etymology Link
The root 'sovel-' is related to 'sopia', but 'soveltuva' specifically uses the passive/reflexive-like 'tu' suffix, suggesting a state of being adaptable or having become fit.
In summary, use soveltuva when you want to emphasize that something is technically, logically, or professionally right for a specific use case. It moves beyond subjective preference into the realm of objective suitability.

Onko tämä materiaali soveltuva ulkokäyttöön?

This question asks if the material's properties allow it to withstand outdoor conditions, showing the word's practical application in engineering and design.
Mastering soveltuva requires understanding its grammatical behavior, specifically how it interacts with other words in a sentence. Most commonly, soveltuva is followed by a noun in the illative case (the 'into' case, ending in -an, -en, -iin, etc.). This indicates the purpose or target for which something is suitable. For example, 'soveltuva lapsille' (suitable for children) or 'soveltuva tähän tarkoitukseen' (suitable for this purpose).
The Illative Connection
Always ask 'To what is it suitable?' (Mihin se soveltuu?). The answer will be in the illative case.
Because it is an adjective, soveltuva must also agree with the noun it modifies in both case and number. If you are talking about 'suitable methods' (plural), you would use 'soveltuvat menetelmät'. If you are referring to 'in a suitable place' (inessive), you would say 'soveltuvassa paikassa'. This declension is standard for Finnish adjectives ending in -va.

Valitse soveltuva työkalu jokaiselle työvaiheelle.

In this imperative sentence, 'soveltuva' is in the nominative/accusative form modifying 'työkalu' (tool). The sentence instructs the user to select the tool that is technically appropriate for the specific stage of work. You will often see soveltuva used in complex noun phrases. For instance, 'kaikille soveltuva malli' (a model suitable for everyone). Here, 'kaikille' is the allative case (to/for everyone), providing another way to show the beneficiary or target. However, the illative remains the most standard choice for specific functions.

Löysimme tutkimukseen soveltuvia koehenkilöitä.

Notice how 'soveltuvia' is in the partitive plural to match 'koehenkilöitä' (test subjects). This suggests we found some suitable subjects, not necessarily all of them.
Adverbial Modification
Common adverbs used with 'soveltuva' include 'erittäin' (extremely), 'huonosti' (poorly), and 'parhaiten' (best).
Another advanced usage involves the word appearing in the role of a predicate adjective after the verb 'olla' (to be). 'Tämä ohjelmisto on soveltuva yrityskäyttöön' (This software is suitable for corporate use). In this structure, the focus is on the property of the software itself.

Onko hakijalla tehtävään soveltuva tausta?

This is a classic HR question. It asks if the applicant's background 'fits into' the position. Understanding these patterns allows you to deploy 'soveltuva' with the precision of a native speaker, ensuring your Finnish sounds professional and grammatically sound.
If you are living or working in Finland, you will hear and see soveltuva in environments where standards and qualifications matter. It is a staple of the Finnish bureaucracy and job market. When browsing LinkedIn or the TE-palvelut website, almost every job posting will mention 'soveltuva korkeakoulututkinto' (an applicable university degree). This phrase is crucial because it allows the employer to remain flexible—they aren't just looking for one specific major, but any degree that provides the skills necessary for the role.
Job Advertisements
Used to define the 'ideal' yet flexible profile of a candidate.
Legal and Official Documents
Used to specify which laws or regulations apply to a specific situation.
You will also hear this word in technical and scientific discussions. If a scientist is discussing a chemical compound, they might say it is 'soveltuva katalyytiksi' (suitable as a catalyst). In this context, soveltuva implies that the compound has the specific molecular properties required for the reaction.

Tämä tila ei ole soveltuva yleisötilaisuuksien järjestämiseen.

This is a common sign or notice you might see in a building. It indicates that due to fire safety or capacity regulations, the space cannot be used for public events. Here, soveltuva acts as a formal gatekeeper of rules. In schools and universities, teachers might discuss whether a certain book is 'soveltuva oheislukemistoksi' (suitable as supplementary reading). This suggests that the book's difficulty level and content align with the curriculum.

Onko teillä tähän työhön soveltuvat varusteet?

This might be heard at a construction site or a gym. It's a safety-conscious way of asking if you have the right gear.
Product Packaging
Labels often state 'soveltuva mikroaaltouuniin' (microwave safe/suitable).
Finally, in the world of Finnish politics and news (Yle Uutiset), you'll hear analysts debating if a certain policy is 'soveltuva ratkaisu' (a suitable solution) to a complex social problem like inflation or healthcare. In these high-stakes environments, soveltuva implies a solution that is both practical and politically feasible.
The most frequent mistake learners make with soveltuva is confusing it with its cousin, sopiva. While they both translate to 'suitable' in English, they are not always interchangeable. Sopiva is general and often refers to subjective preference or physical size. If a dress fits you, it is sopiva. If you use soveltuva for a dress, it sounds like you are saying the dress is technically engineered for the purpose of being a dress—which sounds very robotic.
Subjective vs. Objective
Use 'sopiva' for 'I like this, it fits my taste'. Use 'soveltuva' for 'This meets the technical requirements'.
Another common error is using the wrong case for the target. Learners often want to use the partitive or the genitive because of English influence ('suitable of' or 'suitable for'). However, Finnish requires the illative case. Writing 'soveltuva lapsille' (allative) is acceptable and common, but 'soveltuva lapsiin' (illative) is the more traditional grammatical target for the verb soveltua from which the adjective is derived.

Väärin: Tämä on soveltuva testi.
Oikein: Tämä testi on soveltuva tähän tilanteeseen.

While the first sentence isn't 'wrong' per se, it is incomplete. Soveltuva almost always needs a context. Just saying something is 'a suitable test' without saying what it is suitable for makes the sentence feel unfinished in Finnish. Learners also struggle with the word sovellettava. This is the passive present participle meaning 'which is to be applied'. While soveltuva means something is suitable, sovellettava means something must be applied. For example, 'sovellettava laki' is the law that must be applied to the case, whereas a 'soveltuva laki' would just be a law that could fit the situation.
The 'va' vs 'tuva' trap
'Soveltava' (applying) is active; 'soveltuva' (suitable) is a state of being.
Lastly, remember the plural forms. Many students forget that the 'v' in soveltuva doesn't change, but the ending does. 'Soveltuvat' (plural nominative), 'soveltuvia' (plural partitive).

Nämä eivät ole soveltuvia menetelmiä.

Using the singular 'soveltuva' here would be a major agreement error.
To truly enrich your Finnish vocabulary, you must understand where soveltuva sits among its synonyms. The most obvious alternative is sopiva. As discussed, sopiva is the general-purpose word for 'suitable'. If you are unsure which to use, sopiva is usually the safer, more natural choice for daily life. However, if you want to sound more precise, consider these alternatives:
Tarkoituksenmukainen
This means 'expedient' or 'purposeful'. It is used when something is suitable specifically because it helps achieve a goal efficiently.
Kelvollinen
This means 'valid' or 'decent'. It suggests that something meets the minimum standards to be used, even if it's not perfect.
Another high-level synonym is relevantti (relevant). While soveltuva focuses on the ability to be used, relevantti focuses on the importance or connection to the topic. In academic papers, you might use pätevä. While pätevä usually means 'competent' (for a person), it can also mean 'valid' (for an argument or a law).

Etsimme tarkoituksenmukaista ratkaisua ongelmaan.

This sounds even more professional than 'soveltuva' because it implies the solution was designed with the specific outcome in mind. For negative contexts, you have sopimaton (inappropriate/unfit) and soveltumaton (unsuitable/inapplicable). Sopimaton often carries a moral or social weight—like 'sopimaton käytös' (inappropriate behavior). Soveltumaton remains technical—like 'soveltumaton työkalu' (the wrong tool for the job).
Yhteensopiva
This means 'compatible'. Use this when two things need to work together, like software and hardware.
If you are talking about a person being suitable for a role, kyvykäs (capable) or ansioitunut (distinguished/merited) are great alternatives that focus more on the person's skills than the abstract fit.

Tämä on kelpo suoritus.

Kelpo is a more informal, slightly old-fashioned way of saying 'suitable' or 'good enough'. Understanding these nuances will allow you to choose the exact shade of meaning required for your communication, which is a hallmark of C1-level proficiency.

How Formal Is It?

Le savais-tu ?

The root 'sopia' is one of the most versatile in Finnish, giving birth to words for peace (sovinto), contracts (sopimus), and even fitting rooms (sovituskoppi). 'Soveltuva' is its high-tech, professional descendant.

Guide de prononciation

UK /ˈsoʋeltuʋɑ/
US /ˈsoʊvɛltuːvɑ/
Primary stress is always on the first syllable: SO-vel-tu-va.
Rime avec
tuntuva liukuva jatkuva pysyvä (near rhyme) kuuluva nukuva pukuva lukuva
Erreurs fréquentes
  • Pronouncing 'v' like 'w'. In Finnish, 'v' is closer to English 'v'.
  • Putting stress on the second or third syllable.
  • Merging the two 'u' and 'a' sounds at the end; they should be distinct.
  • Mispelling with two 'l's (sovelltuva) due to the root 'sovellus'.
  • Confusing it with 'soveltava' (applying).

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 4/5

Common in texts, but requires understanding of suffixes.

Écriture 5/5

Hard to choose between 'sopiva' and 'soveltuva' correctly.

Expression orale 5/5

Requires correct case government (illative) on the fly.

Écoute 3/5

Clear pronunciation, but can be confused with 'soveltava'.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

sopia sopiva soveltaa tehtävä tarkoitus

Apprends ensuite

soveltuvuus asianmukainen tarkoituksenmukainen sovellettava pätevyys

Avancé

lainvalinta suhteellisuusperiaate viitekehys validiteetti kompetenssi

Grammaire à connaître

Adjective Agreement

Soveltuvat (pl) menetelmät (pl).

Illative Case Government

Soveltuva työhön (illative).

Present Participle (-va/vä)

Soveltuva is formed from the verb 'soveltua'.

Translative with 'todeta'

Hänet todettiin soveltuvaksi (translative).

Genitive with 'arvioida'

Arvioimme hänen soveltuvuuttaan (noun form).

Exemples par niveau

1

Tämä mehu on soveltuva lapsille.

This juice is suitable for children.

Lapsille is the allative case (for children).

2

Onko tämä kello soveltuva?

Is this watch suitable?

Basic nominative use.

3

Tämä auto on soveltuva perheelle.

This car is suitable for a family.

Perheelle is allative (for the family).

4

Etsin soveltuvaa lahjaa.

I am looking for a suitable gift.

Soveltuvaa is partitive because the search is ongoing.

5

Tämä on soveltuva paikka.

This is a suitable place.

Simple adjective-noun pair.

6

Onko ruoka soveltuva minulle?

Is the food suitable for me?

Minulle is allative (for me).

7

Tämä kirja on soveltuva kouluun.

This book is suitable for school.

Kouluun is illative (to/for school).

8

Se ei ole soveltuva.

It is not suitable.

Negative sentence with 'ei'.

1

Tämä takki on soveltuva talvisäähän.

This jacket is suitable for winter weather.

Talvisäähän is illative (into winter weather).

2

Etsimme työhön soveltuvaa henkilöä.

We are looking for a person suitable for the job.

Työhön is illative (for the work).

3

Nämä kengät eivät ole soveltuvat juoksuun.

These shoes are not suitable for running.

Soveltuvat is plural nominative.

4

Onko tämä materiaali soveltuva ulkokäyttöön?

Is this material suitable for outdoor use?

Ulkokäyttöön is illative.

5

Tämä kurssi on soveltuva aloittelijoille.

This course is suitable for beginners.

Aloittelijoille is allative plural.

6

Löysimme soveltuvan asunnon kaupungista.

We found a suitable apartment in the city.

Soveltuvan is genitive/accusative (object of found).

7

Tämä työkalu on soveltuva tähän tehtävään.

This tool is suitable for this task.

Tehtävään is illative.

8

Onko sinulla soveltuva koulutus?

Do you have a suitable education?

Possessive structure 'minulla on'.

1

Hakijalla on tehtävään soveltuva työkokemus.

The applicant has work experience suitable for the position.

Tehtävään is illative.

2

Tämä menetelmä on soveltuva tutkimukseen.

This method is suitable for the research.

Tutkimukseen is illative.

3

Valitse tarkoitukseen soveltuva pesuaine.

Choose a detergent suitable for the purpose.

Tarkoitukseen is illative.

4

Onko ohjelmisto soveltuva yrityskäyttöön?

Is the software suitable for corporate use?

Yrityskäyttöön is illative.

5

Tämä tila on soveltuva kokousten pitämiseen.

This space is suitable for holding meetings.

Pitämiseen is the illative of the fourth infinitive (noun form).

6

Etsimme soveltuvia ratkaisuja ongelmaan.

We are looking for suitable solutions to the problem.

Soveltuvia is partitive plural.

7

Lääke ei ole soveltuva kaikille potilaille.

The medicine is not suitable for all patients.

Potilaille is allative plural.

8

Tämä on soveltuva hetki aloittaa hanke.

This is a suitable moment to start the project.

Hetki is the subject complement.

1

Sovellettava laki määräytyy sopimuksen mukaan.

The applicable law is determined according to the contract.

Note: 'sovellettava' is the passive participle often confused with 'soveltuva'.

2

Onko hakija läpäissyt soveltuvuusarvioinnin?

Has the applicant passed the suitability assessment?

Soveltuvuusarvioinnin is the genitive object.

3

Tämä pinnoite on soveltuva vaativiin teollisuusympäristöihin.

This coating is suitable for demanding industrial environments.

Ympäristöihin is illative plural.

4

Käytämme vain soveltuvin osin vanhaa ohjeistusta.

We use the old instructions only in applicable parts.

Soveltuvin osin is an instructive plural idiom.

5

Tutkimustulos ei ole suoraan soveltuva käytäntöön.

The research result is not directly applicable to practice.

Käytäntöön is illative.

6

Onko tontti soveltuva asuinrakentamiseen?

Is the plot suitable for residential construction?

Asuinrakentamiseen is illative.

7

Työnantaja arvioi hakijan soveltuvaa osaamista.

The employer evaluates the applicant's applicable expertise.

Soveltuvaa osaamista is partitive object.

8

Tämä on teknisesti soveltuva ratkaisu.

This is a technically suitable solution.

Teknisesti is an adverb modifying the adjective.

1

Analysoimme, onko viitekehys soveltuva tähän ilmiöön.

We are analyzing whether the framework is applicable to this phenomenon.

Ilmiöön is illative.

2

Säädöstä sovelletaan soveltuvin osin myös yksityishenkilöihin.

The regulation is applied, where applicable, also to private individuals.

Yksityishenkilöihin is illative plural.

3

Kyseessä on erityisen soveltuva menetelmä laadulliseen analyysiin.

It is a particularly suitable method for qualitative analysis.

Analyysiin is illative.

4

Onko ehdotettu malli soveltuva vallitsevaan markkinatilanteeseen?

Is the proposed model applicable to the prevailing market situation?

Markkinatilanteeseen is illative.

5

Valinnassa painotetaan tehtävään soveltuvaa koulutusta ja kokemusta.

In the selection, emphasis is placed on education and experience suitable for the task.

Soveltuvaa modifies both nouns.

6

Tämä ei ole soveltuva foorumi poliittiselle keskustelulle.

This is not a suitable forum for political discussion.

Keskustelulle is allative.

7

Arvioimme hankkeen soveltuvuutta alueen kehityssuunnitelmiin.

We evaluate the suitability of the project for the region's development plans.

Soveltuvuutta is the partitive noun form.

8

Menetelmä todettiin soveltuvaksi vasta pitkällisen testauksen jälkeen.

The method was found suitable only after extensive testing.

Soveltuvaksi is the translative case, used with 'todeta'.

1

Kysymys on siitä, onko normi soveltuva tässä nimenomaisessa oikeustapauksessa.

The question is whether the norm is applicable in this specific legal case.

Oikeustapauksessa is inessive.

2

Teoria on soveltuva vain rajatuissa olosuhteissa.

The theory is applicable only under limited conditions.

Olosuhteissa is inessive plural.

3

Harkitsemme, onko toimenpide soveltuva suhteellisuusperiaatteen valossa.

We are considering whether the measure is appropriate in light of the principle of proportionality.

Valossa is a metaphorical inessive (in the light of).

4

Soveltuvuusarvioinnissa ilmeni seikkoja, jotka estävät nimityksen.

Factors emerged in the suitability assessment that prevent the appointment.

Soveltuvuusarvioinnissa is inessive.

5

Onko kyseinen diskurssi soveltuva tämän historiallisen kontekstin tarkasteluun?

Is the discourse in question suitable for examining this historical context?

Tarkasteluun is illative.

6

Sovellettavan oikeuden määrittäminen on prosessin kriittisin vaihe.

Determining the applicable law is the most critical stage of the process.

Sovellettavan is a passive participle (to-be-applied).

7

Tämä ei ole soveltuva tapa käsitellä arkaluonteista aineistoa.

This is not an appropriate way to handle sensitive material.

Aineistoa is partitive object.

8

Tutkimus osoitti menetelmän olevan soveltuva laajamittaiseen käyttöön.

The study showed the method to be suitable for large-scale use.

Soveltuva is part of a participial construction (lauseenvastike).

Collocations courantes

soveltuva koulutus
soveltuva menetelmä
soveltuva laki
soveltuva ratkaisu
soveltuva materiaali
soveltuva tila
soveltuva tausta
soveltuva varustus
soveltuva hinta
erittäin soveltuva

Phrases Courantes

soveltuvin osin

— In applicable parts; where appropriate. Used in legal or instructional texts.

Sääntöjä sovelletaan soveltuvin osin.

tehtävään soveltuva

— Suitable for the task or position. Very common in HR.

Hän on tehtävään soveltuva.

kaikille soveltuva

— Suitable for everyone; universal.

Tämä on kaikille soveltuva malli.

ulkokäyttöön soveltuva

— Suitable for outdoor use. Common on product labels.

Maali on ulkokäyttöön soveltuva.

lapsille soveltuva

— Child-friendly or appropriate for children.

Elokuva on lapsille soveltuva.

tarkoitukseen soveltuva

— Fit for purpose.

Etsimme tarkoitukseen soveltuvaa työkalua.

teknisesti soveltuva

— Technically suitable or feasible.

Ratkaisu on teknisesti soveltuva.

huonosti soveltuva

— Poorly suited or ill-fitting for a purpose.

Tämä on huonosti soveltuva vaate sateeseen.

yleisesti soveltuva

— Generally applicable.

Tämä on yleisesti soveltuva ohje.

erityisen soveltuva

— Particularly suitable.

Tämä on erityisen soveltuva tila.

Souvent confondu avec

soveltuva vs soveltava

Active participle meaning 'applying' (e.g., applied science).

soveltuva vs sovellettava

Passive participle meaning 'which must be applied' (legal context).

soveltuva vs sopiva

General word for suitable/fitting (less formal).

Expressions idiomatiques

"soveltuvuuskoe"

— An aptitude test or entrance exam to determine suitability for a field.

Pääsin läpi soveltuvuuskokeesta.

educational
"soveltuvuusarviointi"

— A formal psychological or professional assessment of suitability.

Hän osallistui soveltuvuusarviointiin.

professional
"soveltamisala"

— The scope of application (e.g., of a law or a theory).

Lain soveltamisala on laaja.

legal
"soveltava tutkimus"

— Applied research (as opposed to basic research).

Hän tekee soveltavaa tutkimusta.

academic
"soveltuvuusrajoite"

— A limitation on suitability or applicability.

Laitteessa on soveltuvuusrajoitteita.

technical
"soveltuvuuslausunto"

— A formal statement or certificate of suitability.

Lääkäri antoi soveltuvuuslausunnon.

medical/legal
"soveltuva ammattitaito"

— Relevant or applicable professional skills.

Harkitsemme hakijan soveltuvaa ammattitaitoa.

employment
"soveltuvuusperuste"

— A criterion used to determine suitability.

Mitkä ovat valinnan soveltuvuusperusteet?

administrative
"soveltuva kieli"

— Appropriate language (register or specific tongue).

Käytä tilanteeseen soveltuvaa kieltä.

social/linguistic
"soveltuva rangaistus"

— An appropriate or applicable punishment.

Oikeus päätti soveltuvasta rangaistuksesta.

legal

Facile à confondre

soveltuva vs soveltava

Looks very similar.

Soveltava is active (applying something), soveltuva is a state (being suitable).

Soveltava tutkimus vs. soveltuva menetelmä.

soveltuva vs sovellettava

Both relate to applying.

Sovellettava implies an obligation or a future action (to be applied).

Sovellettava laki.

soveltuva vs asianmukainen

Both mean appropriate.

Asianmukainen means following the 'asia' (matter/rule). Soveltuva means fitting the function.

Asianmukainen asuste (proper attire).

soveltuva vs tarkoituksenmukainen

Very close in meaning.

Tarkoituksenmukainen specifically emphasizes the goal (purpose).

Tarkoituksenmukainen ratkaisu.

soveltuva vs yhteensopiva

Relates to fitting.

Yhteensopiva means 'compatible' (fitting together).

Yhteensopiva tietokoneen kanssa.

Structures de phrases

A2

[Noun] on soveltuva [Illative].

Tämä on soveltuva työhön.

B1

Etsiä [Partitive] soveltuvaa [Noun].

Etsin tähän soveltuvaa autoa.

B2

[Noun] todetaan soveltuvaksi [Illative].

Materiaali todettiin soveltuvaksi rakentamiseen.

C1

Soveltuvin osin [Sentence].

Soveltuvin osin ohjeita voidaan muuttaa.

C2

Kyseenalaistaa [Genitive] soveltuvuus [Illative].

Kyseenalaistamme teorian soveltuvuuden tähän tapaukseen.

B1

Kaikille soveltuva [Noun].

Tämä on kaikille soveltuva ratkaisu.

A2

Onko [Noun] soveltuva?

Onko tämä soveltuva?

B2

Ei-soveltuva [Noun].

Se oli ei-soveltuva vastaus.

Famille de mots

Noms

soveltuvuus (suitability)
sovellus (application/app)
soveltaminen (application/applying)
soveltuvuuskoe (aptitude test)

Verbes

soveltaa (to apply/adapt)
soveltua (to be suitable/fit)
sovittaa (to fit/reconcile)

Adjectifs

soveltuva (suitable)
soveltumaton (unsuitable)
sovellettu (applied)
soveltava (applying)

Apparenté

sopia (to fit/agree)
sopiva (suitable)
sovinto (reconciliation)
sovitus (arrangement/fitting)
sopimus (agreement/contract)

Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Common in professional and written Finnish; moderate in daily speech.

Erreurs courantes
  • Tämä paita on soveltuva. Tämä paita on sopiva.

    Soveltuva sounds like the shirt has a technical function. Sopiva is for size/look.

  • Soveltuva tutkimuksessa. Soveltuva tutkimukseen.

    You need the illative case (-Vn), not the inessive case (-ssa).

  • Hän on soveltava opettaja. Hän on soveltuva opettaja.

    Soveltava means he is 'applying' something. Soveltuva means he is 'suitable'.

  • Nämä on soveltuva ratkaisuja. Nämä ovat soveltuvia ratkaisuja.

    Adjectives must agree in number and case with the noun.

  • Etsin soveltuva työtä. Etsin soveltuvaa työtä.

    The object of 'etsiä' must be in the partitive case.

Astuces

Case Government

Always remember the illative case. It's 'soveltuva mihin', not 'soveltuva mistä'.

The Root

Learn the verb 'soveltaa' alongside it. It helps you see the connection to 'applying' things.

Be Professional

Use 'soveltuva' in emails to your boss or in school assignments to sound more academic.

The 'V' is for Valid

Think: If it's soveltuva, it's a 'Valid' choice for the task.

CV Tip

Use the phrase 'tehtävään soveltuva koulutus' to describe your degree in a Finnish CV.

Ending check

Listen for the '-va' ending; it signals that it's a participle used as an adjective.

Stress Check

Keep the stress on the 'SO-'. Don't let it drift to the middle of the word.

Aptitude Tests

Remember 'soveltuvuuskoe'—it's a big part of Finnish educational life.

Law terms

Look for 'soveltuva laki' in contracts to know which country's law applies.

Avoid subjective 'nice'

Don't use 'soveltuva' to mean 'pretty' or 'nice'. Use it for 'functional'.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of 'SOVEL' as 'SOLVE'. A 'soveltuva' tool 'SOLVES' the problem because it's the 'suitable' one.

Association visuelle

Imagine a key perfectly sliding into a lock. The key is 'soveltuva' for that specific lock.

Word Web

soveltuva sopiva soveltaa tehtävä koulutus laki tarkoitukseen soveltuvuus

Défi

Try to find three items in your room and say what they are 'soveltuva' for in Finnish. (e.g., 'Tämä kynä on soveltuva kirjoittamiseen.')

Origine du mot

Derived from the verb 'soveltaa', which is a causative derivative of 'soveltua'. This, in turn, is related to the root 'sopia' (to fit, to agree). The '-uva' suffix is a present participle ending that forms adjectives indicating a state or capability.

Sens originel : To be in a state of fitting or being adaptable to a purpose.

Uralic / Finnic.

Contexte culturel

When discussing people, 'soveltumaton' (unsuitable) can sound very harsh and technical, like a rejection of their basic abilities. Use 'sopimaton' for behavioral issues.

English speakers often use 'suitable' or 'appropriate' loosely. In Finnish, 'soveltuva' is more restricted to functional/professional contexts.

Yle Uutiset: Frequently uses 'soveltuva' when discussing new laws. TE-palvelut: The official Finnish job portal where 'soveltuva' appears in almost every listing. Kela: The social security institution uses 'soveltuva' to define eligibility for benefits.

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Job Hunting

  • soveltuva koulutus
  • soveltuva työkokemus
  • soveltuvuuskoe
  • tehtävään soveltuva

Legal/Official

  • soveltuva laki
  • soveltuvin osin
  • soveltuva viranomainen
  • soveltuva säädös

Technical/DIY

  • soveltuva työkalu
  • ulkokäyttöön soveltuva
  • soveltuva materiaali
  • tarkoitukseen soveltuva

Education

  • soveltuva oheislukemisto
  • soveltuva menetelmä
  • opiskeluun soveltuva
  • soveltuvuusarviointi

Health/Safety

  • lapsille soveltuva
  • soveltuva lääkitys
  • soveltuva varustus
  • käyttöön soveltuva

Amorces de conversation

"Onko tämä menetelmä mielestäsi soveltuva meidän projektiimme?"

"Millaista soveltuvaa koulutusta tähän työhön yleensä vaaditaan?"

"Onko tämä tila soveltuva ison juhlan järjestämiseen?"

"Miten arvioisit tämän ratkaisun soveltuvuutta nykytilanteeseen?"

"Mitkä lait ovat soveltuvia tässä nimenomaisessa tapauksessa?"

Sujets d'écriture

Kirjoita työhakemus, jossa korostat, miksi koulutuksesi on soveltuva kyseiseen tehtävään.

Pohdi, onko nykyinen asuntosi soveltuva tarpeisiisi viiden vuoden kuluttua.

Mieti jotain vaikeaa ongelmaa ja kuvaile siihen soveltuva ratkaisu.

Onko teknologia aina soveltuva tapa ratkaista inhimillisiä ongelmia? Perustele.

Kuvaile päivääsi ja mainitse kolme soveltuvaa työkalua, joita käytit.

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

Only if you are talking about technical specs. For example, 'soveltuva suoja-asu' (suitable protective gear) is fine, but for a party dress, use 'sopiva'.

It most commonly takes the illative case (-Vn) for the target. Example: 'soveltuva työhön'.

It is less common than 'sopiva' in casual chat, but very common in professional or 'asiakieli' (official) spoken Finnish.

'Soveltuva' is 'suitable'. 'Soveltava' is 'applying' (active). Think 'applied math' (soveltava matematiikka).

Use 'soveltumaton'. It is the caritive form of the word.

Yes, but it sounds like you are evaluating their professional skills. 'Hän on soveltuva tehtävään'.

It means 'where applicable' or 'in relevant parts'. It's a very common legal idiom.

It is 'soveltuva'. Only one 'l' in the middle and one 'v' at the end.

In Finnish terms, it's medium-sized, but for learners, the four syllables (so-vel-tu-va) can be tricky.

Yes, especially for dietary requirements. 'Soveltuva keliaakikoille' (suitable for celiacs).

Teste-toi 200 questions

writing

Write a sentence using 'soveltuva' and 'työhön'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'This material is suitable for outdoors.'

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a plural sentence with 'soveltuvat'.

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'I am looking for a suitable solution.'

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Use 'soveltuva' in a sentence about education.

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'The law is not applicable here.'

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a sentence using 'soveltuva' and 'lapsille'.

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Use 'erittäin soveltuva' in a sentence.

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'We found suitable test subjects.'

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a sentence about a tool.

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'Is it a suitable moment?'

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a negative sentence using 'soveltumaton'.

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'The rules are applied where applicable.'

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Use 'soveltuvuuskoe' in a sentence.

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'He has a background suitable for the position.'

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a sentence using 'soveltuva' as a predicate.

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'Choose a suitable method.'

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Use 'yleisesti soveltuva' in a sentence.

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Translate: 'Is this water suitable for drinking?'

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
writing

Write a sentence about a 'suitable forum'.

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Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'This is a suitable place.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'I have a suitable education.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'Is this suitable for children?'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'We need a suitable solution.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'The method is suitable for research.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'Are these suitable tools?'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'This is not a suitable time.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'I passed the aptitude test.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'The law is applicable.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'Where applicable.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'Is this material suitable?'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'It is a technically suitable solution.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'We are looking for a suitable person.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'This is suitable for everyone.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'The room is suitable for meetings.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'A suitable price.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'Not suitable for outdoor use.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'A suitable background.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'The study of suitability.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
speaking

Say: 'Extremely suitable.'

Read this aloud:

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 'Hän on soveltuva.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 'Onko tämä soveltuva työkalu?'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 'Etsimme soveltuvaa henkilöä.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 'Tämä on soveltuva ratkaisu.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 'Sovellettava laki.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 'Soveltuvin osin.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 'Menetelmä on soveltuva.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 'Soveltuvuusarviointi alkaa.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 'Ei soveltuva lapsille.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 'Soveltuva koulutus vaaditaan.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 'Löysimme soveltuvia paikkoja.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 'Onko se soveltuva hetki?'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 'Tämä on teknisesti soveltuva.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 'Soveltuva tausta on eduksi.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
listening

Listen and write: 'Hän läpäisi kokeen.'

Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :
Correct ! Pas tout à fait. Rponse correcte :

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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