Transitional Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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transitional

[trænˈzɪʃənl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

government

Relating to or characteristic of a process or period of transition.

Synonyms

interim, intermediate, transitory.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
transitional

Used to describe a temporary phase or state that serves as a bridge between two more stable periods. Commonly used in contexts like business, personal development, or political change.

  • The company is in a transitional phase as it adopts new technologies.
  • She is currently in a transitional period between jobs.
interim

Typically refers to a temporary arrangement, position or period, often until something permanent is established. Often used in business, management, and organizational settings.

  • He was appointed as the interim CEO while the board searched for a permanent replacement.
  • During the interim period, the project will be managed by a temporary team.
transitory

Emphasizes the short-lived or fleeting nature of something. Often used in philosophical, emotional, or temporal contexts. This word might carry a slight negative connotation, suggesting impermanence.

  • Their happiness was transitory, lasting only a few brief moments.
  • The economic boom proved to be transitory, with conditions quickly returning to normal.
intermediate

Describes something that exists between two stages, places, or levels. Often used in education, project stages, or physical locations.

  • She took an intermediate French class because she already knew the basics.
  • The intermediate stage of the project involves developing a prototype.

Examples of usage

  • transitional government
  • transitional period
Context #2 | Adjective

design

Denoting a style of architecture or furniture that is designed to facilitate a smooth transition between different periods or styles.

Synonyms

blended, eclectic, fusion.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
transitional

This word is used to describe a state of moving from one place, stage, or style to another. It often implies a temporary phase.

  • The transitional phase between youth and adulthood can be challenging
  • The office is currently in a transitional state as we renovate
blended

This word is best used when referring to things that combine elements from different sources or styles seamlessly.

  • The blended learning model incorporates both online and face-to-face teaching techniques
  • She enjoys listening to blended music genres that mix rock and jazz
fusion

This word is appropriate for describing the merging of different styles, ideas, or cultures to create something new and cohesive.

  • The restaurant specializes in fusion cuisine that blends Asian and Latin flavors
  • Their music is a fusion of electronic and traditional instruments
eclectic

Use this word when describing a unique mix of styles, ideas, or tastes drawn from diverse sources.

  • Her eclectic taste in music ranges from classical to hip-hop
  • The living room had an eclectic decoration style with furniture from different eras

Examples of usage

  • transitional design
  • transitional furniture

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Transitional periods, like adolescence, are crucial for identity formation and personal development.
  • The concept of transition in therapy emphasizes helping individuals navigate life's changes effectively.
  • Research indicates that successfully managing transitional phases can lead to greater resilience later in life.

Education

  • Transitional programs in education help students change levels, such as from primary to secondary school.
  • These programs often provide support systems to help students adjust to the new academic and social environment.
  • Teachers play a vital role in facilitating transitional experiences to ease student anxiety.

Architecture

  • In architecture, the term refers to design elements that facilitate smooth changes between different spaces.
  • Transitional styles in architecture blend different styles, like traditional and modern, to create unique spaces.
  • The use of transitional spaces, like hallways, helps guide people through larger buildings.

Literature

  • In storytelling, transitional phrases or scenes help readers move smoothly between different parts of the narrative.
  • Transitional characters often represent change, symbolizing growth or new beginnings.
  • Many plots revolve around transitional moments that lead to character development or plot twists.

Origin of 'transitional'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'transitional' comes from the Latin 'transitionem', meaning 'to go across'.
  • It was first used in English in the mid-19th century, reflecting the growing interest in change and development.
  • The prefix 'trans-' means 'across', while 'ition' refers to the process of doing something.

The word 'transitional' originated from the Latin word 'transitionalis', which is derived from the verb 'transitionare' meaning 'to go across'. The term has been used in various contexts to describe a state of change or movement from one condition to another.


See also: transitioning.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,350 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.