halvgennemskinnelige

Halvgennemskinnelige is a term used in Scandinavian languages to describe surfaces or materials that are partially translucent. It denotes a level of translucency where light can pass through but details on the far side are not clearly visible. In English, the concept is typically expressed as semi-translucent or partially transparent.

Origin and usage: The word combines elements meaning “half” and “through” or “transparent,” and it is used as an adjective to modify nouns such as material, fabric, or finish. It appears in design briefs, architectural documentation, textile descriptions, and product labeling to indicate a balance between privacy, light diffusion, and visibility.

Characteristics: The degree of translucency depends on thickness, material composition, surface treatment, and internal scattering. A halvgennemskinnelige surface diffuses light to soften illumination, reduce glare, and blur fine details, while still allowing silhouettes or general light transmission. It is distinct from gjennomsiktig (transparent) and ugjennomsiktig (opaque).

Applications: Common examples include frosted or diffused glass, wax paper, diffusing films, vellum, sheer fabrics, and some plastics. The term is often used to guide aesthetic choices, privacy considerations, and lighting design in both architectural and product contexts.

See also: translucent, semi-transparency, diffusion.