Alilistattu

Alilistattu is a term used in Finnish archival and cataloging practice to describe an item that is listed as a sub-entry under a broader main entry. It denotes a hierarchical relationship in which the sub-item relies on the parent entry for broader context while maintaining its own specific data.

Derived from ala-, meaning under or sub, plus lista, list, and the participle suffix -ttu, alilistattu literally means sub-listed. The form is typical of Finnish administrative language and is used in descriptions of metadata and record-keeping practices.

In practice, alilistattu entries are linked to a parent record and do not appear as independent entries in a catalog; they serve to organize complex documents, datasets, or inventories that contain multiple components. They are commonly encountered in procurement dossiers, project files, or archival series where sub-items require distinct identification within a broader category.

Cataloging guidelines emphasize maintaining the reference to the parent item while providing separate metadata for the alilistattu entry, including its own title, dates, and identifiers. This structure supports hierarchical browsing and precise retrieval.

While the term is widely recognized in Finnish-language contexts, its usage outside Finland is limited. It reflects a broader trend toward multilevel cataloging in archives, libraries, and government records.

See also: hierarchical cataloging, sublisting, Finnish archival practice.