10 times perkele is the only appropriate response
Few words in the Finnish language are as powerful, versatile, and emotionally charged as Perkele. This glorious, guttural expletive is more than just a curse—it’s a statement, an outburst, and sometimes even a form of encouragement. There are moments in life when no other word quite captures the sheer frustration, rage, or determination of the moment. Here are 10 times when 'Perkele' was the only appropriate response.
1. When you slip on ice for the fifth time that day
Finnish winters are beautiful but also treacherous. One second, you’re walking with confidence; the next, you’re horizontal, arms flailing, dignity shattered. After a few too many close calls, there’s only one word that sums up the situation: Perkele!
2. When the coffee runs out
Coffee is sacred in Finland. If you wake up, stumble to the kitchen, and find the coffee tin empty, there’s only one thing to say. And if it happens on a Monday morning? That’s an extended PERKELE! with extra force.
3. When the bus rriver sees you running and still drives away
You make eye contact. You wave. You sprint. The bus driver acknowledges you… and then shuts the doors and drives off. There’s no other reaction but a deep, resigned Perkele!
4. When the sauna is not hot enough
Imagine stepping into a sauna, expecting a proper Finnish heatwave, only to find it lukewarm. Disappointment doesn’t even begin to cover it. This is a clear case for a muttered, frustrated Perkele.
5. When the weather changes four times in one day
Sunshine in the morning, rain at noon, a blizzard by evening—Finnish weather is unpredictable at best. After getting soaked for the third time, you shake your fist at the sky and declare, Perkele!
6. When the snow plough buries your car
There's been a snow storm and the snow ploughs have been working hard to get those roads cleared. Hurrah, you think only to discover that the clear road means your car is buried behind a rock solid white wall. You’re in a hurry, and now there's no way you're making it. You get your shovel out and the rage bubbles up, and before you know it: Perkele! under your breath.
7. When you drop your phone and it lands screen-sown
That slow-motion moment of horror as your phone tumbles from your hands, landing face-first on the pavement. Before you even dare to check the damage, you’ve already whispered a desperate Perkele…
8. When mosquitoes attack you telentlessly
Finnish summers are amazing—until you realize you’re being eaten alive by mosquitoes the size of small birds. After the 27th bite on your ankle, you swat at thin air, shouting Perkele! into the night.
9. When You step outside and realise you dressed for the wrong season
You checked the weather, but Finland had other plans. It’s -15°C, and you’re in autumn shoes. Or it’s unexpectedly warm, and you’re sweating in your winter coat. Perkele.
10. When you get to the Café and they’ve run out of pulla
You’ve been dreaming of that warm, cardamom-scented pulla all day. You finally get to the counter, only to hear the dreaded words: "Sorry, we just sold the last one." You nod politely, but inside? Perkele
Few words capture frustration, determination, and sheer Finnish spirit like Perkele. Whether it’s directed at the weather, public transport, or an army of mosquitoes, this legendary curse is the ultimate expression of emotion. What’s your most Perkele-worthy moment? Share it (politely, of course) in the comments!