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Temporarily Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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temporarily

[ˈtɛmpəˌrɛrəli ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adverb

in a temporary manner

For a limited time only, not permanently

Synonyms

briefly, fleetingly, transitorily.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
temporarily

Used when something happens or lasts for a limited time, often to indicate a change back to a previous state.

  • She temporarily moved to another city for work.
  • The shop is temporarily closed for renovations.
briefly

Used when something happens for a very short amount of time, often implying conciseness or short duration.

  • He spoke briefly about his new project.
  • The power outage lasted briefly.
fleetingly

Used when something happens for a very short and often barely noticeable amount of time, often implying that it was so quick it might almost be missed.

  • She smiled fleetingly and then turned away.
  • His presence was felt fleetingly throughout the room.
transitorily

Used in more formal or academic contexts to indicate something that lasts for a very short and often uncertain period of time. It usually means the same as 'temporarily' but in a more formal way.

  • The chemicals only interact transitorily before breaking down.
  • His influence was transitorily felt in the early stages of the project.

Examples of usage

  • She is only temporarily staying with us until she finds her own place.
  • The road is temporarily closed for construction work.
Context #2 | Adjective

lasting for only a limited period of time

Lasting for a limited time only, not permanently

Synonyms

interim, provisional, short-term.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
temporarily

Used when something is not intended to last for a long period, but just for a short while.

  • She moved in with her parents temporarily until she could find a new apartment
short-term

Appropriate when discussing temporary plans or arrangements that are expected to last for a brief period.

  • This is a short-term solution to a long-term problem
provisional

Used when something is arranged or agreed upon for the present but is likely to change later.

  • They offered him a provisional contract while they finalized the details of his employment
interim

Suitable when referring to a transitional period between two phases or situations.

  • The company appointed an interim CEO until a permanent one was hired

Examples of usage

  • This solution is only temporary, we need a more permanent fix.
  • The temporary employee will be with us for the next two weeks.

Translations

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

Origin of 'temporarily'

The word 'temporarily' originated from the Latin word 'temporarius', which means 'lasting for a time'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century. The concept of temporary arrangements or situations has been present throughout history, as people have always needed short-term solutions for various circumstances.

See also: temporariness.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,803, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.