epäonnistuneet

Epäonnistuneet is a Finnish term that functions as both an adjective and a noun. It derives from the verb epäonnistua, meaning “to fail,” with the prefix ep- indicating negation. As an adjective, epäonnistunut (singular) and epäonnistuneet (plural) modify nouns, for example epäonnistuneet projektit (failed projects) or epäonnistuneet yritykset (failed ventures). As a noun, epäonnistuneet can refer to people or groups who have failed in a given endeavour, such as joukko epäonnistuneita yrittäjiä or epäonnistuneet.

The word carries a neutral origin in linguistic terms but can acquire evaluative or stigmatizing nuance depending on context. In formal writing, it is typically a descriptive label for outcomes rather than a blanket judgment of individuals; in media or public discourse, it can take on a more pejorative tone. Its use is governed by Finnish grammar rules for adjectives and noun phrases, and it inflects for case and number like other adjectives.

Etymology-wise, epäonnistuneet combines the negative prefix epä- with onnistua “to succeed,” yielding a term that denotes failure or lack of success. The form is versatile: epäonnistuneet projektit, epäonnistuneet yritykset, or even epäonnistuneita tapauksia in different syntactic roles. It is closely related to epäonnistuminen (failure) and the verb epäonnistua.

Examples illustrate its range: “Epäonnistuneet projektit osoittavat tarpeen uudelleenarvioinnille.” “Joukko epäonnistuneita yrittäjiä perusti uuden hankkeen.” “Hän on epäonnistunut useissa hankkeissa.” See also epäonnistuminen, onnistuminen, epäonnistua.