tullimaksu
Lemma: tullimaksu
Translation: customs duty; tariff; import tax (noun)
Etymology: Compound word formed from 'tulli' (customs) + 'maksu' (payment, fee). 'Tulli' derives from Swedish 'tull', which ultimately comes from Middle Low German. The concept of customs duties dates back to ancient times when goods crossing borders were subject to taxation. The Finnish customs system has been influenced by both Swedish and Russian administrative traditions due to Finland's historical position between these powers.
Example Usage
Tuotteesta on maksettava tullimaksu, kun tuot sen EU:n ulkopuolelta.
You must pay customs duty on the product when importing it from outside the EU.
Tullimaksut ovat osa valtion verotuloja.
Customs duties are part of the state's tax revenue.
Korkeat tullimaksut voivat rajoittaa kansainvälistä kauppaa.
High customs duties can restrict international trade.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'tulli' (customs) + 'maksu' (payment) = 'payment at customs'
- Associate with English 'toll' (which sounds similar to 'tulli') - both are payments required when crossing boundaries
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Antonyms
Cultural Context
Finland as an EU member state follows the common EU customs tariff system. Before joining the EU in 1995, Finland had its own customs system. Understanding customs duties is important for anyone involved in international trade with Finland or importing goods for personal use.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'tullimaksu' and 'tullivero' are often used interchangeably in casual speech, technically 'tullimaksu' refers specifically to the duty paid, while 'tullivero' emphasizes the tax aspect of customs charges.
Confused word:
Tullivero on osa maan verojärjestelmää.
Customs tax is part of the country's tax system.
Notes: In everyday usage, these terms may be used interchangeably, but in official contexts, the distinction may be more important.
Mnemonic: 'Maksu' focuses on the payment aspect, while 'vero' emphasizes the tax nature.
Explanation: This is simply the plural form of 'tullimaksu', but learners might confuse it with a different concept.
This word:
Tullimaksu on määrätty tälle tuotteelle.
A customs duty has been imposed on this product.
Confused word:
EU:n sisäiset tullimaksut on poistettu.
Customs duties within the EU have been eliminated.
Notes: The singular form is used when discussing the concept in general or a specific instance, while the plural is used when referring to multiple duties or the system of duties.
Mnemonic: Remember that '-t' at the end typically indicates plural in Finnish.