Poolläbipaistva

Poolläbipaistva is an Estonian term that translates to "translucent" in English. It describes a material or substance that allows light to pass through but does not permit objects on the other side to be seen clearly. This is in contrast to transparent materials, where objects can be seen distinctly, and opaque materials, which block light entirely.

Translucent materials scatter light as it passes through them. This scattering effect is what blurs the image on the other side. Examples of translucent materials include frosted glass, thin paper, certain plastics, and some types of natural minerals. In everyday life, translucent materials are used for decorative purposes, such as in lampshades and windows, to diffuse light and create a softer ambiance. They are also employed in scientific and industrial applications where controlled light transmission is required. The degree of translucency can vary widely, from slightly hazy to almost opaque, depending on the material's composition and structure. The Estonian term poolläbipaistva accurately captures this characteristic of partial light transmission.