The hunt for the simplest possible vocabulary: Minimal Finnish meets easy Finnish

Abstract

In the current European context, the term Easy Language (previously easy-to-read language) refers to a language form that has been modified to be easier to read and understand for people with various linguistic challenges. This empirical pilot study combined Minimal Finnish and Easy Finnish, investigating whether Minimal Finnish could provide core vocabulary for Easy Finnish. Easy Finnish experts adapted a Standard Finnish text on discrimination, using both conventional Easy Finnish guidelines and the 300-word lexicon of Minimal Finnish, then presented the texts to test readers. The study found that Minimal Finnish is beneficial for explaining abstract concepts, and the semantic primes and molecules may be considered a list of 'safe' words. However, it can also give rise to more complex grammar or lengthen the text.