alaiset

Alaiset is a Finnish noun meaning people who are under someone’s authority within a hierarchical setting. The term is most commonly used to refer to subordinates within organizations such as companies, government agencies, or military units, but it can also describe individuals in a social or institutional order who are under a supervisor or superior. In contemporary Finnish, alaiset is typically used in plural form; the singular is alainen.

Etymology and nuance: The word derives from ala, meaning “lower part” or “subordinate position,” with the -inen suffix forming an adjective that can function as a noun. When used as a noun, alainen denotes a person in a subordinate position relative to someone else. The term is generally neutral in administrative or formal contexts, but in some settings it can carry a pejorative or demeaning nuance if spoken with a dismissive tone. In polite or precise language, it is common to specify the relation, for example by referring to “alaiset työntekijät” (subordinate employees) or by naming the supervisor.

Usage and grammar: Alaiset is declined like other Finnish nouns. It appears in sentences such as “Johtaja antoi ohjeet alaisilleen” (The manager gave instructions to his subordinates). The word is frequently used in official or workplace discourse to describe the relationship between different levels of staff or officials. Related concepts include supervisor, esimiestehtävät (supervisory duties), and hierarchy in organizational context.