Alikappaleen

Alikappaleen is the genitive form of the Finnish noun alikappale, which denotes a subparagraph or sub-section within a larger kappale (paragraph or section). The term is used primarily in formal writing, such as legal documents, contracts, and academic texts, where hierarchical structuring of text requires clear reference to smaller subdivisions. In everyday language, the word is less common.

Etymology and form: alikappale is built from the prefix ali- meaning “sub” and the base kappale meaning “paragraph” or “section.” The genitive singular suffix -en yields alikappaleen, used when referring to the subparagraph as something belonging to or defined by another unit, or when citing it. For example, references in a document may read as alikappaleen 2 or alikappaleen 2.1.

Usage and context: In Finnish legal and academic writing, sections are often divided into kappaleet and further into alikappaleet. Alikappaleen is then used in citations or descriptions of the rules, provisions, or statements contained in that subparagraph. Numbers are typically appended to indicate the exact subparagraph (for example, alikappaleen 2.1). The form is a precise, formal reference that helps locate specific provisions within a larger text.

Notes: The term is specialized and largely confined to formal contexts. In translations or broader discussion, it may be rendered as “subparagraph” or “subsection,” but the exact Finnish term and its genitive form are used when quoting or referencing the original Finnish document.