ajutiselt

Ajutiselt is an Estonian adverb meaning temporarily or for the time being. It is used to describe actions, situations, or arrangements that are not permanent and are expected to change later. The term is common in everyday speech as well as in formal writing, such as notices, press releases, and official statements.

The word is formed from the adjective ajutine, which means temporary, and functions as an adverb within a sentence. It typically modifies verbs or entire clauses, signaling that the described state is in effect only for a limited period. For example, a project might be described as ajutiselt peatatud (temporarily halted), services as ajutiselt kättesaadavad (temporarily available), or a person might ajutiselt asendada juhatuse esimeest (temporarily substitute for the chairperson).

In use, ajutiselt contrasts with terms that denote permanence, such as püsiv (permanent) or püsivalt (permanently). It is appropriate in formal contexts and everyday communication alike, especially when conveying provisional arrangements, temporary measures, or interim statuses. Related terms include ajutine (temporary) and related adverbs that express duration or timing.

See also: Estonian language, ajutine, temporary, grammar notes on adverbs.