nädalanädalas

nädalanädalas is an Estonian phrase that literally translates to "week in the week." It is commonly used to describe a period of time that is longer than a single week but shorter than a month, typically encompassing several weeks. The phrase implies a duration that is somewhat indeterminate but generally falls within a monthly timeframe, often used in casual conversation.

The exact meaning of nädalanädalas can vary depending on context. It might refer to a school term, a project timeline, or a period of vacation. For instance, someone might say they are going on holiday for "a few weeks in the week," indicating a holiday that spans more than one week but is not a full month long. Similarly, it could be used to describe a recurring event that happens weekly but over the course of several weeks, such as a weekly class series.

While not a precise unit of measurement, nädalanädalas serves as a useful colloquialism in Estonian for expressing durations that are more substantial than a week but not quite a month. It avoids the need for specific day counts or the more formal designation of a full month, offering a flexible and informal way to communicate timeframes. The phrase is understood by native speakers as referring to a period of multiple weeks within a broader monthly cycle.