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Temporal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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temporal

[ˈtɛmpərəl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

time-related

Relating to time or the way it changes.

Synonyms

temporary, time-related, transient.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
temporal

Used in academic or formal contexts to refer to things related to time or the material world, as opposed to the spiritual or eternal.

  • The study focused on the temporal aspects of human behavior.
  • In many cultures, temporal power is distinguished from spiritual authority.
time-related

Used more casually or generally to describe anything connected to or involving time.

  • Time-related stress can affect your health.
  • They discussed several time-related topics during the meeting.
temporary

Used when describing something that is not permanent, often for a short duration.

  • She found a temporary job for the summer.
  • The bridge was closed due to temporary maintenance.
transient

Used to describe something that is fleeting or short-lived, often with a slightly formal or literary tone. This word can sometimes have a negative connotation when referring to people or situations.

  • The transient nature of beauty is often highlighted in literature.
  • The city had a transient population of seasonal workers.

Examples of usage

  • The temporal nature of life is inevitable.
  • Her paintings explore the concept of temporal existence.
  • The temporal sequence of events is crucial in understanding history.
Context #2 | Noun

anatomy

Either of a pair of bones which form part of the side of the skull behind the forehead.

Synonyms

side skull bone, temporal bone.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
temporal

Refers to the anatomical part of the skull relating to the temporal bone. Can be used in medical or biological discussions.

  • The temporal region of the skull is particularly vulnerable during impact
temporal bone

Specifically used in medical, anatomical, or scientific contexts to refer to the bone in the skull located near the lower sides of the head and near the ears.

  • The temporal bone houses the structures of the inner ear
side skull bone

Informal or layman's term for the bone located on the side of the skull. Used in everyday conversation to refer to this part of the anatomy.

  • She hit the side skull bone when she fell

Examples of usage

  • The temporal bones protect the brain and support the temples.
  • He suffered a fracture in his left temporal bone.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In physics, 'temporal' refers to phenomena that change over time, like the movement of stars or the decay of radioactive elements.
  • Temporal analysis helps scientists understand the evolution of systems, like climate change or population growth.
  • Neuroscience studies how our brain perceives time, showing that 'temporal' processes influence memory and experience.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers debate the nature of temporal existence, questioning whether time is linear or cyclical.
  • Temporal experiences shape our understanding of reality, affecting how we relate to past, present, and future.
  • The concept of 'temporal beings' suggests humans live within time, experiencing it uniquely compared to timeless entities.

Literature

  • Authors often play with temporal elements in storytelling, using flashbacks or non-linear narratives.
  • Classic works like 'One Hundred Years of Solitude' use temporal shifts to depict the cyclicality of human experience.
  • Dystopian literature sometimes explores themes of time, suggesting societies could manipulate or alter it.

Pop Culture

  • Time travel is a common theme in movies and TV shows, like 'Back to the Future', eluding to the flexibility of temporal concepts.
  • In video games such as 'Chrono Trigger', players navigate different time periods, showcasing how temporal choices impact the story.
  • Many songs and poems explore themes of time, illustrating emotions related to past memories or future aspirations.

Origin of 'temporal'

Main points about word origin

  • Derived from the Latin word 'temporalis', meaning 'of time', it reflects the connection between time and daily life.
  • The root 'tempus', which means time in Latin, also gives rise to other words like 'temporary' and 'contemporary'.
  • This term has been used since the 14th century in English to discuss time-related concepts.

The word 'temporal' originated from the Latin word 'temporalis' meaning 'of time'. It has been used in English since the late 14th century to refer to things related to time or the material world as opposed to the spiritual realm. Over time, the word has evolved to encompass various meanings in different contexts, such as anatomy and philosophy.

See also: temp, temper, tempest, templar, tempo.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,170, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.