temporary

[tem-puh-rer-ee] / ˈtɛm pəˌrɛr i /

ADJECTIVE

lasting only a short while

Synonyms

STRONGEST

brief interim limited makeshift momentary provisional short-lived transitory

STRONG

acting alternate ephemeral fugitive impermanent make-do mortal passing perishable shifting short stopgap substitute summary supply temp transient volatile

WEAK

Band-Aid ad hoc ad interim changeable evanescent fleeting for the time being fugacious overnight pro tem pro tempore provisory slapdash unfixed unstable

Antonyms

STRONGEST

enduring lasting lengthy long-lived permanent

STRONG

long unabridged

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

While Hassett acknowledged that the near-term spike in energy prices is concerning, he sees it as a temporary disruption.

From Barron's • Apr. 15, 2026

There was an increased demand for temporary workers, as companies were cautious about committing to permanent hires.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 15, 2026

Teams have been working together to manage the site safely, with temporary traffic lights put in place to allow a lane closure so specialist contractors can access the area.

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026

You can’t build temporary stands there; the outfield touches Sunset Boulevard.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 15, 2026

Out of money, he took a temporary position at the Swiss patent office, a far cry from the assistantship at a university that he wanted.

From "Zero: The Biography of a Dangerous Idea" by Charles Seife

Vocabulary lists containing temporary

It's About Time: Chron and Temp

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"My Superpowers"

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"Be-ers and Doers" and "My Moment of Truth"

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