Perimmäiset

Perimmäiset is a Finnish adjective used to describe something that is ultimate, fundamental, or deepest in nature. The term points to the core, essential, or most definitive aspect of a matter, rather than its surface or practical features. In everyday language it can refer to essential motives, underlying causes, or core principles.

In philosophy, theology and related fields, perimmäinen emphasizes what lies at the foundation of an argument or belief. Common collocations include perimmäiset syyt (the ultimate causes), perimmäiset motivit (the fundamental motives), perimmäiset kysymykset (the ultimate questions), and perimmäiset totuudet (the deepest truths). The plural form perimmäiset modifies plural nouns, while the singular perimmäinen is used for single entities.

Usage notes: perimmäisten, perimmäisen and related forms follow standard Finnish adjective agreement with nouns in number and case. The nuance of perimmäinen contrasts with terms describing more immediate, superficial, or practical aspects, such as käytännöllinen (practical) or pinnallinen (superficial). In literature and public discourse, perimmäinen can convey a sense of profundity or inescapable essence, often as a rhetorical or analytical tool to highlight fundamental dimensions of a topic.

See also: ydin, perusteet, syy, totuus.