Aluslauseiden

Aluslauseiden are subordinate clauses—clauses that cannot stand alone as complete sentences and instead function as parts of a larger sentence. They are typically introduced by subordinating conjunctions or relative pronouns and can serve as nouns (content clauses), adjectives (relative clauses), or adverbs (adverbial clauses) within the main clause.

There are finite and non-finite subordinate clauses. Finite alulauseet contain a tensed verb and express explicit grammatical information such as time, cause, or modality. They can function as content clauses (for example, that-clauses), relative clauses, or adverbial clauses. Non-finite subordinate clauses lack a finite verb form and include infinitive and participial clauses; they often express purpose, result, or manner and rely on the main clause for tense and person.

In Finnish, subordinate clauses are commonly linked to the main clause by conjunctions such as että (that), kun (when), jos (if), jotta (so that), and vaikka (although). Relative clauses are introduced by joka, mikä, or kuka and modify a noun. A characteristic feature is the verb-final position within subordinate clauses, as in Uskon, että hän tulee. (I believe that he will come.)

Examples illustrate functions: Content clause—I know that you lied. Finnish: Tiedän, että valehtelet. Relative clause—The man who called yesterday. Finnish: Mies, joka soitti eilen. Adverbial clause—When he arrives, we will eat. Finnish: Kun hän saapuu, syömme. Non-finite example—Hän päätti lähteä. (He decided to leave.) Participial adverbial: Hän nyökkäsi, hymyillen. These illustrate how aluslauseiden attach to and modify the main clause within sentences.