Pääaiheena

Pääaiheena is a Finnish expression meaning “as the main topic” or “as the central subject.” It is a noun phrase formed from pääaihe (“main topic”) with the translative suffix -na, which marks a role or function. The phrase is used to indicate what is being treated as the central focus in a discussion, written text, presentation, or program.

Etymology and grammar: Pääaihe is a compound of pää (“main”) and aihe (“topic” or “subject”). The suffix -na (or -nä) is the translative case in Finnish, used to express “as” or “in the capacity of.” Therefore, pääaiheena literally means “as the main topic.” The standard construction is pääaiheena + something, or the phrase can function as a predicative complement in sentences such as “Pääaiheena on ilmastonmuutos.”

Usage: The expression is common in academic writing, journalism, meeting minutes, and presentations to frame what follows as the central subject. Examples: “Pääaiheena tässä artikkelissa on ilmastonmuutos ja sen vaikutukset.” “Tutkimuksen pääaiheena on nuorten mielenterveys.” It signals emphasis and helps structure argument or narrative around a central concern.

Variations and notes: The plural form “pääaiheina” is used when several topics are treated as main ones, as in “Pääaiheina ovat X ja Y.” The expression is most natural in formal or semi-formal register and is often preferred in written Finnish for clarity and precision. Related terms include aihe (topic) and pääaihe (the main topic).