lausunto

Lausunto is a Finnish noun that refers to a statement or opinion given about a matter. It can be a formal written declaration, an assessment, or an explanation offered by a person or an organization. The word is used in both everyday language and official contexts, and its exact meaning can range from a simple remark to a detailed expert evaluation.

Etymology and sense

Lausunto derives from the verb lausua, meaning to utter or to speak. As a noun, lausunto denotes something that has been spoken or written to convey a message, judgment, or evaluation. The term can describe a personal opinion as well as a formal document produced by an authority or an expert.

Contexts and uses

Common contexts for lausunto include legal, administrative, and governmental settings. An expert may provide an asiantuntijan lausunto (expert opinion) in a court or regulatory proceeding. An official statement from a public authority or a committee is also referred to as a lausunto, often containing background information, analyses, and conclusions. In legislative work, ministries or agencies may publish lausuntoja (opinions or comments) on proposed laws or regulations. In addition to formal uses, lausunto can appear in corporate or organizational reporting as a formal appraisal or assessment of a situation or a proposal.

Form and authority

Lausunto is typically a written document, though oral statements can exist, especially in meetings or hearings. It is usually interpretive rather than binding in itself; its influence depends on the authority of the issuer and the context in which it is used. A lausunto may guide decision-making, clarify issues, or provide rationale for a course of action.

Translations

In English, lausunto is often translated as statement, opinion, or expert opinion, depending on the context. The term highlights the communicated judgment or assessment rather than a binding rule.