Meaning
Spending time casually with others.
Cultural Background
Finns value 'oma rauha' (personal space). Hanging out often involves comfortable silence. Young Finns use 'hengailla' constantly to describe their social life. In the Finnish workplace, 'hengailla' is strictly avoided to maintain professionalism. Using 'hengailla' in dating can be a way to keep things low-pressure.
Context is key
Only use this with people you know well.
Avoid in business
It sounds unprofessional in a work setting.
Meaning
Spending time casually with others.
Context is key
Only use this with people you know well.
Avoid in business
It sounds unprofessional in a work setting.
Use it for spontaneity
It's the perfect word for last-minute plans.
Test Yourself
Fill in the blank with the correct form of 'hengailla'.
Me _________ eilen puistossa.
The subject is 'me' (we), so the verb must be in the first-person plural past tense.
Which sentence is appropriate for a casual text to a friend?
Choose the best option:
This is the only casual, social option.
Match the Finnish word with its English meaning.
Match:
These are key vocabulary words related to the phrase.
Complete the dialogue.
A: Mitä teet? B: _________
This is the most natural response to 'What are you doing?' when you are free.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesMe _________ eilen puistossa.
The subject is 'me' (we), so the verb must be in the first-person plural past tense.
Choose the best option:
This is the only casual, social option.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
These are key vocabulary words related to the phrase.
A: Mitä teet? B: _________
This is the most natural response to 'What are you doing?' when you are free.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsNo, it is too informal.
No, 'tavata' is for planned meetings.
It is a regular Type 1 verb.
Yes, it is very informal.
Yes, but it can sound negative.
Hengailu.
Yes, it is very common.
Yes, 'Hengailen koiran kanssa'.
No, that is 'ripustaa'.
No, never.
Related Phrases
Olla kavereita
similarTo be friends
Viettää aikaa
similarTo spend time
Chillata
synonymTo chill
Tavata
contrastTo meet
