hükmünde

Hükmünde is a Turkish adjective-forming expression used to indicate that something is governed by, under the authority of, or by virtue of a ruling, decree, or law. It is most common in formal and legal language, where it signals that a rule or document has binding force or status as a norm.

Etymology and form: The word derives from hüküm (ruling, verdict) plus the locative suffix -nde, yielding a phrase that literally means “in the ruling” or “under the ruling.” In many legal constructions it forms part of a larger compound that characterizes the legal basis or authority behind a rule or decision.

Usage: The hallmark use of hükmünde is in the canonical expression kanun hükmünde kararname, which translates as a decree having the force of law or a law-decree. In this fixed construction, hükmünde denotes the legal status conferred by law, indicating that the following term operates with the authority of law. Outside this well-known phrase, hükmünde can appear in doctrinal or historical Turkish texts to emphasize that a regulation, guideline, or decision is framed by or subject to a higher legal norm.

Translation considerations: English renders hükmünde most often as “having the force of law,” “by virtue of law,” or “under the authority of.” The exact translation depends on context and the noun it accompanies.

See also: hüküm, hüküm verme, kanun, kararname.