lopputuote

Lopputuote is a term used in Finnish journalism and literary writing to describe a closing quotation that appears at the end of a text. It is not a quotation used to introduce the piece, but rather a final line or fragment that closes the narrative or argument.

The primary function of a lopputuote is to provide closure and leave the reader with a lasting thought. It may originate from a person quoted in the article, or it can be a concise proverb, a reflective statement, or a paraphrase that encapsulates the central message.

In practice, a lopputuote is usually a brief direct quotation, sometimes set as a separate paragraph or line at the end. It can also be a short, crafted sentence by the author that echoes the theme. The use and form vary by publication, genre, and style guide; it is more common in feature writing, essays, and opinion pieces than in strictly report-driven news.

Relation to other terms: a lopputuote is distinct from an epigraph (quoted material placed at the beginning) and from quotes used within the body text. It complements the article by inviting reflection rather than merely summarizing; its use is optional and depends on tone, audience, and editorial conventions.