Perusteet

Perusteet is the plural form of the Finnish noun peruste, meaning basis, foundation, reason, or justification. The word refers to the essential grounds or elements on which something rests, and it can denote both tangible foundations and abstract principles. Examples include the grounds for a decision (päätöksen perusteet), the bases of a theory, or the prerequisites for a task.

Linguistically, perusteet expresses multiple bases or reasons. The singular peruste points to a single foundation or justification, while perusteet enumerate several. In everyday language and formal contexts, the term is used across domains such as law, education, science, and policy to indicate what supports a claim, rule, or action. It is closely related to, but not identical with, perustelu, which more specifically means a justification or reasoning given to support an argument.

In practice, perusteet appear in phrases that clarify why something is done or asserted. In legal and administrative settings, for instance, one speaks of the perusteet for a decision or regulation, outlining the logical or evidentiary grounds. In academic writing, researchers may present the perusteet of their hypotheses or methodologies, establishing the foundations for their work. The term thus functions as a flexible label for the essential elements that underlie conclusions, actions, or structures.

Related terms include peruste (singular), which denotes a single basis, and perustelu or perustelut, which focus on justification or reasoning.