Liikemies

Liikemies is a Finnish noun that refers to a person involved in business or commercial activity. Traditionally it denotes a man who has achieved prominence in commerce, industry, or finance. In contemporary usage, the term is often encountered in media profiles and discussions of the business elite. While still gendered in form, it can be used informally to refer to businesspeople in general, though many speakers prefer gender-neutral alternatives in inclusive language.

Etymology and nuance: the word combines liike, meaning business or trade, with mies, meaning man. The masculine form reflects historical usage, and in some contexts it retains a masculine connotation. For gender-inclusive language, speakers may opt for phrases such as liike-elämän toimija, liiketoiminnan edustaja, or yrittäjä, depending on the exact role and emphasis. In journalism and public discourse, liikemies can carry connotations of wealth, influence, or leadership within corporate circles.

Usage and equivalents: liikemies appears in news reports, profiles, and discussions about corporate leadership or investment. It is commonly translated as “businessman” in English, though “businessperson” or “entrepreneur” may be more accurate depending on the context. Related Finnish terms include yritysjohtaja (company executive) and yrittäjä (entrepreneur), which broaden or refine the sense beyond the traditional gendered label. The choice of term often reflects tone, formality, and the speaker’s stance toward gender-neutral language.