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Provisionally Meaning: Definition and Examples

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provisionally

[prəˈvɪʒ.ən.ə.li ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

temporary situation

Provisionally means temporarily or subject to change. It is often used to describe a situation or arrangement that is not finalized and may be altered in the future.

Synonyms

provisory, temporarily, tentatively.

Examples of usage

  • The meeting has been provisionally scheduled for next week.
  • She was provisionally accepted into the program pending her final transcript.
  • The law was provisionally enacted while they debated its long-term implications.

Interesting Facts

Law and Governance

  • In legal terms, something described as provisional may refer to temporary arrangements made until something more permanent is established.
  • Countries often set up provisional governments during times of transition, such as after a revolution or civil unrest.

Psychology

  • Provisional thinking allows individuals to remain flexible in decision-making, adapting to new information and changing circumstances.
  • In cognitive behavioral therapy, clients are encouraged to hold beliefs provisionally, allowing for growth and re-evaluation.

Education

  • In academic contexts, provisional acceptance may be given to students whose final qualifications are yet to be confirmed.
  • Provisional assessments can be used in education to gauge a student's understanding before final grading.

Everyday Usage

  • People often make provisional plans for events, such as a party or meeting, that are subject to change depending on circumstances.
  • Provisional measures can also mean temporary adjustments, like wearing a cast for a broken bone until it's healed.

Origin of 'provisionally'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'provisio,' meaning 'foreseeing,' which combines the prefix 'pro-' meaning 'for' and 'visio' meaning 'sight.'
  • It first appeared in the English language in the late 15th century, emphasizing preparatory actions or arrangements.

The adverb 'provisionally' is derived from the adjective 'provisional,' which has its roots in the Latin word 'provisio,' meaning foresight or arrangement. It entered the English language in the mid-19th century, associated with temporary arrangements or conditions meant to provide for particular needs until more permanent solutions could be established. As English evolved, the use of 'provisionally' solidified its place in both formal and informal contexts, especially in legal, business, and academic discussions to indicate that a decision or arrangement is not yet definitive and may change based on future developments.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,747, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.