tavoittelee
Wordform Details
Translation: to aim forto pursueto strive for
Part of Speech: verb
Inflection Type:
third-personsingularpresenttenseIs Dictionary Form: No
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: tavoitella
Translation: to pursue; to strive for; to aim at; to seek; to reach for; to aspire to (verb)
Etymology: Derived from the Finnish noun 'tavoite' (goal, objective, target), which itself comes from the verb 'tavata' (to meet). The suffix '-ella' indicates a frequentative action, suggesting repeated attempts or continuous effort. The word encapsulates the concept of repeatedly trying to reach or meet a goal, showing the connection between meeting (tavata) and pursuing objectives.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'tavoite' (goal) + '-ella' (frequentative suffix) = repeatedly trying to reach a goal
- Sounds a bit like 'to avoid telling a lie' - when you pursue truth, you avoid telling lies
- Associate with 'tavata' (to meet) - you're trying to 'meet' your goals
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
In Finnish culture, which values persistence and determination, 'tavoitella' reflects the Finnish 'sisu' concept - the cultural construct describing determination, tenacity of purpose, grit, resilience, and hardiness. The word is commonly used in contexts of personal development, career advancement, and sports.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: While 'tavoitella' means to pursue or strive for something (ongoing process), 'tavoittaa' means to reach, catch, or get hold of something (successful completion).
Confused word:
Tavoitin hänet puhelimitse.
I reached him by phone.
Notes: The difference is similar to the distinction between process and result, or between trying and succeeding.
Mnemonic: 'Tavoitella' has the extra 'l' which can remind you of 'long' - a long, ongoing pursuit. 'Tavoittaa' is shorter, suggesting the completion of reaching something.
Explanation: 'Tavoitella' means to pursue or strive for, while 'tavata' means to meet or encounter someone.
Confused word:
Tapasin ystäväni kahvilassa.
I met my friend at the café.
Notes: 'Tavoitella' is derived from 'tavata', showing the etymological connection between meeting and pursuing goals.
Mnemonic: 'Tavata' is shorter and simpler - just meeting. 'Tavoitella' is longer with more syllables - suggesting the longer process of pursuing something.