Alhaiset

Alhaiset is a Finnish plural adjective form meaning lowly, base, or despicable. It is the nominative plural form of the adjective alhainen, used to describe plural nouns, for example alhaiset ihmiset (lowly people) or alhaiset temput (despicable tricks). The underlying stem alhainen comes from the basic Finnish word for "low" and is used in both literal and figurative senses.

Grammatically, alhaiset agrees with a plural noun in number. The singular form is alhainen, while the comparative and superlative forms are alhaisempi and alhaisin, respectively. Finnish adjectives inflect for number and case, so alhaiset will appear in different forms depending on grammatical case beyond nominative plural.

Usage and connotations are important to note. The term carries a strong negative valence and is typically used in condemnatory or critical contexts, such as journalism or literary prose, to describe people, behavior, or actions considered morally or ethically defective. While it can be applied to groups or individuals, it should be used with caution in polite or neutral discourse, as it can be insulting.

See also: alhainen, the base adjective from which alhaiset is derived, and general Finnish adjective inflection.