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ephemeral
/əˈfɛ.mə.ɹəl/
This word is more formal than "short-lived" or "brief." It is often used in poetic, artistic, or scientific contexts to describe things that are beautiful but temporary. In biology, it specifically refers to plants or insects that complete their entire life cycle in a very short period. When using it for emotions or trends, it suggests a sense of fragility or transience.
💬Casual Conversation
🎬Tuesday afternoon; Karen is at a garden center while David is in a corporate meeting.
Karen Smith
Don't buy those cheap perennials. They're basically ephemeral.
David Smith
I'll just wing it and grab the ones on sale.
💡
Karen uses 'ephemeral' to describe plants that won't survive more than one season, reflecting her obsession with garden perfection. David uses the phrasal verb 'wing it' (to do something without preparation), showing his casual, less meticulous approach compared to Karen's rigid standards.