toimistotunnissa

Toimistotunnissa is a Finnish expression meaning that someone is available in their office during a designated time period. The word combines toimisto (office) and tunti (hour), with the inessive suffix -ssa, i.e., during the office hour. It is used to indicate that the person can be met for consultation, questions, or administrative matters.

Common contexts for toimistotunnissa include universities, schools, public authorities, and private-sector offices. It signals regular weekly or daily times when staff hold open office hours for students, clients, or colleagues. It is often combined with specific times, for example, "toimistotunnissa tiistaisin klo 10–12" or "toimistotunnit maanantai–perjantai klo 9–11."

Practical use involves visiting or contacting the person during the stated window. Outside toimistotunnissa, communication is typically through email or phone, and appointments may be requested. The term is distinct from virka-aika, which refers to the general opening hours of public offices and is legally binding for providing certain services.

Etymology and nuance: the term is widely understood in Finnish institutions and emphasizes personal availability rather than formal authority. While its exact scheduling can vary, toimistotunnissa serves as a concise way to convey when a staff member can be approached for guidance, questions, or meetings.