läpikuultavaan

Läpikuultava is a Finnish adjective that describes something that allows light to pass through, but not enough to see distinct objects on the other side. It is often translated into English as translucent or semi-transparent.

The term is used in various contexts. In materials science and optics, it refers to materials that scatter light as it passes through. Examples include frosted glass, thin paper, or certain plastics. Unlike transparent materials, where light travels in a straight line, light passing through a läpikuultava material is refracted and scattered in multiple directions. This scattering effect is what prevents clear vision through the material.

In everyday language, läpikuultava can describe a variety of objects or phenomena. For instance, a thin veil might be described as läpikuultava, or the pale, almost see-through skin of a very young fruit. Fog or mist are also examples of atmospheric conditions that can be described as läpikuultava, as they diffuse light and reduce visibility.

The degree of läpikuultavuus can vary greatly. Some materials are only slightly läpikuultava, while others are almost completely so. This characteristic is often desirable for aesthetic purposes or for functional reasons, such as diffusing light in a lamp shade or providing privacy while still allowing light to enter a room.