paikoissaan

Paikoissaan is a Finnish verb phrase. It is the third-person plural form of the verb paikoillaan, which means "to be in place" or "to be in its position." The phrase can be used in a variety of contexts, both literal and figurative.

Literally, paikoissaan refers to objects or people remaining in their designated locations. For example, one might say "Lapset olivat paikoissaan odottaen" which translates to "The children were in their places waiting." This indicates that they were not moving around but remained where they were supposed to be.

Figuratively, paikoissaan can describe a state of being settled, unmoving, or unchanging. It can imply that something has found its proper place or has become accustomed to a situation. For instance, "Hän oli vihdoin löytänyt paikoissaan" could mean "He had finally found his place," suggesting a sense of belonging or stability. Conversely, it could also describe a lack of progress or initiative, as in "Asiat eivät edenneet, vaan pysyivät paikoissaan," meaning "Things did not progress but remained in their places."

The word paikoissaan emphasizes a static condition, highlighting that something is not moving or changing its position. It is a common expression used in everyday Finnish to describe states of stillness, established positions, or a lack of movement.