Riippumaton

Riippumaton is a Finnish adjective meaning independent or not dependent. It is used to describe persons, organizations, or processes that operate without external control, influence, or affiliation. In political contexts, riippumaton refers to candidates or representatives who are not affiliated with any political party, for example riippumattomat ehdokkaat (independent candidates). In media and journalism, a riippumaton outlet claims editorial independence from owners, advertisers, or political interests. In science and statistics, riippumaton muuttuja denotes the independent variable, contrasted with the dependent variable (riippuva muuttuja).

Etymology and forms: the word is formed from the root related to riippua, meaning to depend, with a negative suffix that yields “without dependence.” It is a standard, widely used term in Finnish. Related forms include riippumattomuus (independence or impartiality), riippumattomuuspolitiikka (a policy of neutrality), and riippumattomasti (independently or impartially). The plural form is riippumattomat when referring to multiple independent entities.

Usage notes: riippumaton emphasizes lack of obligation to a particular party, owner, or external force, but does not automatically guarantee neutrality or fairness; context matters. The term is common in everyday speech, journalism, politics, and academic writing. It is often contrasted with riippuvainen (dependent) and riippuvuus (dependency).

See also: independence, impartiality, independent candidate, independent variable, dependent variable.