Meaning
Stating intent to purchase.
Cultural Background
Finns value silence and directness. You don't need to apologize for interrupting a shopkeeper if they are free; just say the phrase clearly. Tipping is not expected in Finnish shops. The price you see is the price you pay, and 'Haluaisin ostaa tämän' starts that fixed-price process. Many Finns prefer high-quality, long-lasting items. Using a polite phrase like this shows respect for the craftsmanship of the item. Finland is nearly cashless. When you say this phrase, have your card or phone ready for payment.
The 'Isi' Magic
Whenever you want something in Finland, add '-isi-' to the verb. It's the universal politeness hack.
Don't forget the 'N'
Saying 'tämä' instead of 'tämän' is the most common beginner mistake. That little 'n' makes a big difference!
Meaning
Stating intent to purchase.
The 'Isi' Magic
Whenever you want something in Finland, add '-isi-' to the verb. It's the universal politeness hack.
Don't forget the 'N'
Saying 'tämä' instead of 'tämän' is the most common beginner mistake. That little 'n' makes a big difference!
Test Yourself
Fill in the correct form of 'tämä'.
Haluaisin ostaa ______.
The object of the verb 'ostaa' must be in the accusative case, which is 'tämän'.
Which phrase is the most polite?
You are in a fancy boutique. What do you say?
'Haluaisin' (I would like) is much more polite than 'Haluan' (I want).
Match the Finnish word to its English meaning.
Words: 1. Haluaisin, 2. Ostaa, 3. Tämän
Haluaisin = I would like; Ostaa = to buy; Tämän = this.
Complete the dialogue.
Myyjä: Voinko auttaa? Asiakas: Kyllä, ______.
This is the most natural way to respond when you are ready to make a purchase.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesHaluaisin ostaa ______.
The object of the verb 'ostaa' must be in the accusative case, which is 'tämän'.
You are in a fancy boutique. What do you say?
'Haluaisin' (I would like) is much more polite than 'Haluan' (I want).
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
Haluaisin = I would like; Ostaa = to buy; Tämän = this.
Myyjä: Voinko auttaa? Asiakas: Kyllä, ______.
This is the most natural way to respond when you are ready to make a purchase.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsNot at all, but in a grocery store, you usually just put items on the belt without saying anything. Use this if you need to ask for an item behind the counter.
Yes, that is a very common short version, especially if you are in a hurry.
Say 'Haluaisin ostaa kaksi tällaista' (I would like to buy two of these).
Related Phrases
Paljonko tämä maksaa?
similarHow much does this cost?
Otan tämän
synonymI'll take this
Saisinko tämän?
similarCould I have this?
Haluaisin palauttaa tämän
contrastI would like to return this
