Üldsust

Üldsust is an Estonian noun that denotes the general public, i.e., the citizenry as a whole, outside of particular groups or individuals. The term is used in discussions of public interest, public opinion, and societal welfare, especially in sociology, political science, law, and policy-making.

Etymology and form: Üldsust is formed from the stem üld- meaning general and the noun suffix -sus; it is one of the inflected forms of üldsus. The form üldsust appears in standard Estonian syntax as a direct object or in other positions depending on sentence structure.

Usage and nuance: In formal discourse, üldsust refers to the collective body of people and to concerns that affect people at large rather than specific constituencies. It is commonly contrasted with targeted audiences, private interests, or narrow groups. The word carries a neutral to formal tone and is typical of official reports, academic writing, and public debate.

Relation to related terms: Üldsust is related to avalik (the public or public sphere) and üldsus (the public as a concept or community). Depending on context, speakers may choose among these terms to emphasize openness (avalik), the public as a community (üldsus), or the public as a broad audience (üldsust).