remontoida
Lemma: remontoida
Translation: to renovate; to remodel; to refurbish; to repair (verb)
Etymology: Derived from the Finnish noun 'remontti' (renovation, remodeling), which was borrowed from Swedish 'remonte' or Russian 'remont'. The ultimate origin is French 'remonter' meaning 'to reassemble' or 'to put back together', from 're-' (again) + 'monter' (to mount, to assemble). The Finnish verb adds the productive verb suffix '-oida' to create the action of renovating.
Example Usage
Remontoimme keittiön viime kesänä.
We renovated the kitchen last summer.
He aikovat remontoida kylpyhuoneen ensi kuussa.
They plan to remodel the bathroom next month.
Talo on remontoidaan kokonaan.
The house is being completely renovated.
Oletko remontoinut asuntoasi?
Have you renovated your apartment?
Mnemonics
- Think of 'remote control' + 'aid' = 'remontoida' - you're remotely controlling how to aid or improve a space.
- Remember the English word 'remount' (to mount again) which shares the same Latin root as 'remontoida'.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Antonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Home renovation is a common activity in Finland, especially during summer months. 'Remontoida' is frequently used when discussing property improvements, and Finns often engage in DIY renovation projects for their homes and summer cottages (mökki).
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'remontoida' is an active verb meaning 'to renovate' (something), 'remontoitua' is a reflexive verb meaning 'to become renovated' or 'to undergo renovation by itself'.
Notes: The reflexive form is much less common than the active form.
Mnemonic: 'Remontoida' ends with '-oida' (active action) while 'remontoitua' ends with '-itua' (something happening by itself).
Explanation: 'Remontoida' specifically refers to renovating or remodeling, while 'korjata' is a more general term for fixing or repairing something that is broken.
Confused word:
Korjasin rikkinäisen tuolin.
I fixed the broken chair.
Notes: 'Korjata' can also mean 'to harvest' or 'to collect' in certain contexts.
Mnemonic: Think of 'remontoida' for major changes (renovation) and 'korjata' for smaller fixes (repairs).