Finnish tongue twisters

The Library has some Finns here as interns for three months which is a great opportunity for TOTD to brush up on the bits of Finnish language learned over 20 years ago.  It is, of course, the language of heaven (it takes eternity to learn), but is perhaps one of the most beautiful to listen to in the world.

As a taster, here are some tongue twisters to amuse and bemuse:

http://www.uebersetzung.at/twister/fi.htm
http://www.alphadictionary.com/fun/tongue-twisters/finnish_tongue_twisters.html

and some further information if you want to explore more:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Finnish_language

One of the things Finnish is known for (and one reason it’s quite hard) is the number of cases.  Fifteen is the usual count although we’ve heard people say seventeen.  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Finnish_noun_cases  On the other hand, they don’t have much in the way of prepositions to trip you up.

Oh, and if the Czechs want to know who pinched all their vowels (“strch prst skrz krk” – “stick you finger through your throat” – we’re looking at you) … look no further.

Have a great Easter everyone.