sivukatselu

Sivukatselu is a Finnish term that translates to "side viewing" or "sideways glance." It generally refers to the act of looking at something from the periphery of one's vision, rather than directly. This can be done intentionally, for example, to observe something discreetly without drawing attention, or it can be an involuntary reaction to a stimulus.

In a more metaphorical sense, sivukatselu can describe a brief or superficial examination of a topic or situation. It implies a lack of deep engagement or thorough analysis. Someone might engage in sivukatselu when they are not particularly interested or when they are multitasking. This contrasts with a direct or focused observation, which suggests greater attention and intent.

The concept can be applied in various contexts. In social interactions, a sivukatselu might be a subtle way to gauge a person's reaction or to get a quick impression of someone. In digital contexts, it can refer to glancing at notifications or headlines without fully reading them. The term emphasizes the indirectness and often fleeting nature of the act. It is not a formal psychological term but rather a descriptive everyday word used to capture a specific type of visual or cognitive behavior.