Translucency
Letting some light through while still scattering it, so objects behind aren't clearly visible — frosted glass is translucent, not transparent.
Technical definition
A translucent material transmits light but scatters it enough that a clear image cannot pass through, unlike a transparent material.
Common confusion
Translucent and transparent are often used interchangeably, but transparent specifically implies a clear, undistorted view through the material.
Example
Frosted glass and some fabric curtains are translucent; clear window glass is transparent.
Why it matters
Translucency affects how light-coloured fabrics and glass read differently from fully opaque or fully clear materials.
Related terms
Sources
- Colourwise editorial synthesis — Colourwise