Esikuvaksi

Esikuvaksi is the translative form of the Finnish noun esikuva, meaning a model, exemplar, or prototype. It denotes the role, function, or status of someone or something as a model. Grammatically, esikuvaksi is formed by the root esikuva plus the translative suffix -ksi, used with verbs of becoming or designation.

In practice, esikuvaksi expresses that someone or something is or is being designated as a model for others, or is considered as such. For example: Hän toimii esikuvaksi nuorille. Koulutusohjelma on asetettu esikuvaksi muille oppilaitoksille. Yritys haluaa toimia esikuvaksi alallaan.

Esikuvaksi contrasts with esikuva, which refers to the model itself rather than the designation of becoming one. The term is used in formal and written Finnish to convey role or status. Related terms include malli and prototyyppi.