väliaikaiset

Väliaikaiset is a Finnish term that functions as an attributive adjective meaning "temporary" or "interim" and, in plural, as a noun referring to groups or items designated for a limited period. The word appears in everyday language as well as in official and bureaucratic contexts. The corresponding singular form is väliaikainen and the plural nominative form is väliaikaiset; as a noun, väliaikaiset can denote "temporary workers" or "temporary arrangements," depending on context.

Etymology: The word is formed from väl- meaning "between" or "in-between" and aika meaning "time," signaling something that lasts for a limited period before a permanent solution is possible.

Common usage: In employment, väliaikaiset työntekijät are workers hired for a temporary period, often through staffing agencies. In administration and policy, väliaikaiset ratkaisut or väliaikaiset järjestelyt describe provisional measures or interim arrangements implemented while awaiting permanent solutions. In construction or facilities management, väliaikaiset tilat refer to temporary facilities or structures.

Notes: The term is neutral and widely used in both formal and informal Finnish. It should be declined to agree with the noun it modifies, using forms such as väliaikainen (singular) and väliaikaiset (plural). In translation, equivalents include temporary, provisional, or interim depending on context.