Lähteen

lähteen is the genitive singular form of the Finnish noun lähde, which means source, origin, or spring of water. The word is widely used in several senses, including information, science, and geography.

In information and academic contexts, lähde refers to a source of knowledge or data. It appears in phrases such as lähteen mukaan (according to the source) or tiedon lähde (source of information). The plural form is lähteet, and lähteen functions as the genitive singular, indicating possession or attribution, for example lähteen väite (the source’s claim).

In geography and hydrology, lähde denotes a natural spring or the place where water emerges from the ground. This sense is common in descriptions of landscapes and watercourses, and the related form lähteestä means from the spring.

Grammatical notes: lähteen is the genitive singular of lähde and is used to show belonging or association with a source. It cannot serve as the nominative form on its own and typically accompanies another noun or phrase to specify what is being attributed to the source.

Etymology and usage: lähde is a native Finnish word with broad applicability across everyday language, education, media, and science. Its continued relevance reflects the central idea of origin, foundation, and evidentiary basis in Finnish discourse.