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.

Cooper also issued a temporary block on Trump's demand to close the Kennedy Center for two years of renovations, which was due to start in July.

From Barron's • Jun. 8, 2026

I begin working as a temporary lecturer at different colleges around the city.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 8, 2026

A delay between checks paid in and checks paid out can give the temporary illusion of more funds available.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 7, 2026

"That freedom must be maintained by this generation of leaders and war fighters or what they fought for was merely temporary."

From BBC • Jun. 6, 2026

But the squeak of the metal frame reminded him that this was temporary.

From "Boy 2.0" by Tracey Baptiste

Vocabulary lists containing temporary

It's About Time: Chron and Temp

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"My Superpowers"

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Essential Word Roots: Chron and Temp

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