temporary
/ˈtɛmpəɹi/
Describes something intended to last for only a limited period of time. It carries a strong sense of transience and is often contrasted with 'permanent'. In professional contexts, it frequently refers to employment or staffing (e.g., a "temp") that fills a gap until a permanent solution is found. In these cases, it can imply a lack of security or long-term commitment. When applied to physical objects or structures, it suggests a makeshift quality—something built quickly for immediate need without regard for longevity or durability. Unlike 'brief' or 'short-lived', which simply describe duration, 'temporary' often implies a planned end point or a transition toward a final state.
💬Casual Conversation
Is this new desk setup really just temporary? My whole system is off.
David swore it. Just have to grin and bear it for now.
Meanings
Lasting for only a limited period of time; not permanent.
"They are living in a temporary shelter until their house is rebuilt."
Serving as a substitute for a permanent person or thing.
"The company hired a temporary manager to fill the gap during the search for a CEO."
Collocations & Compounds
temporary housing
Shelter that is available for a short period of time.
The charity provided temporary housing for the families displaced by the fire.
temporary staff
Employees hired for a limited duration.
The company hired temporary staff to help with the holiday rush.
temporary measure
An action taken as a short-term solution to a problem.
The government introduced a temporary measure to stabilize the economy.
temporary tattoo
A decorative design applied to the skin that can be removed.
The children loved getting temporary tattoos at the fair.
temporary disability
A condition that prevents someone from working or performing normal activities for a limited time.
He was on leave due to a temporary disability.
Idioms & Sayings
temporary fix
A quick, often inadequate, solution to a problem that is not expected to last.
This patch is just a temporary fix; we need to replace the whole system.
temporary insanity
A legal defense claiming that a person was not responsible for their actions due to a sudden, brief mental breakdown.
He pleaded temporary insanity for his outburst at the meeting.