Explanation:
The Finnish language is considered endangered or slightly endangered due to various factors. Here are some reasons why there are concerns about the Finnish language:
1. Declining number of speakers: Finnish is spoken by about 5 million people worldwide, mostly in Finland. However, the number of Finnish speakers is decreasing because of the increasing use of English and other languages.
2. Minority language: Finnish is a minority language spoken by a small population, and it is not widely spoken outside of Finland. This makes it vulnerable to extinction, as smaller languages are more likely to be displaced by larger, more dominant languages.
3. Language shift: There has been a shift towards using English and other languages in Finland, particularly in urban areas. This means that younger generations are less likely to use Finnish as their primary language.
4. Lack of language education: In some areas of Finland, there is a lack of Finnish language education. This means that young people may not have the opportunity to learn and use Finnish.
5. Language policy: Some language policies in Finland have been criticized for not doing enough to promote and protect the Finnish language. For example, some argue that there should be more support for Finnish language education, especially in areas where it is not widely spoken.
In conclusion, the Finnish language is considered endangered or slightly endangered due to various factors such as declining number of speakers, language shift, lack of language education, and language policy. Efforts are being made to preserve and promote the language, but it is important to continue these efforts to ensure the survival of the Finnish language.