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Showing results for temporary.
Definitions

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.

District Judge Richard Leon ordered a temporary halt to construction.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 5, 2026

He installed Blanche as her temporary replacement, in what White House officials say may be an audition for the permanent job.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026

Zelinger lived in hotels and temporary rental units down the street from clients in New York and Brazil.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 4, 2026

She grew up thinking that her life in the U.S. was temporary.

From Salon • Apr. 4, 2026

It was the first telegram issued from the temporary War Department headquarters at the Petersen house.

From "Chasing Lincoln's Killer" by James L. Swanson

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.